They are social animals living in herds of between 2 - 25 animals, but can also form much larger groups of 45 - 60. The smaller groups are like an extended family with individuals remaining together over a number of years. Calves remain with their mothers for 3 to 10 years. Adult males may join the group for a short while, or go off to live in bachelor herds.

They eat a wide range of fish including herring, cod, mackerel and salmon. They tend to feed singly or in small groups and also by herding fish into a tight circle close to the surface.

A single calf is born a metre in length usually between March and September after a pregnancy of twelve months. If needed, other females will assist the calf up to the surface for its first breath of air. The interval between births is usually 2 - 3 years.

Dolphins have a complex communication system. Like human beings, a dolphin has a well-developed auditory memory, can learn through observations and comprehend a simple language and rules.

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