
Photo: Daniel Benák · CC BY 4.0
Grampus griseus
Rare visitor: recorded only occasionally in this country
Habitat
Deep oceanic water beyond the continental shelf, recorded at 800–2,000m in some regions
Risso's dolphin is the only species of the genus Grampus in the dolphin family (Delphinidae). Its closest relatives include the pilot whales, the pygmy killer whale, the melon-headed whale and the false killer whale (Wikipedia, general species account).
It prefers deep water beyond the continental shelf and steep bottom slopes, where groups of 8 to 50 animals are commonly seen travelling or bow-riding. It is sometimes seen in association with other dolphins, such as Fraser's dolphin. The cached account is limited, so this entry is restricted to identification and general range.