The dolphin is a marine mammal belonging to the cetacean order. An excellent swimmer, it has lungs & can hold its breath for 20 minutes under the water. The small hole on its head known as the spiracle ebles it to take in oxygen on the waters surface. It is also capable of diving to great depths. This is a very sociable animal which mainly lives in groups (from 15 to more than several hundred according to the species). This is a definite advantage where protection from predators is concerned but also for hunting shoals of sardines or mackerel. Dolphins emit ultrasound & use echo-location (a kind of sor) to find their way around & to detect the presence of obstacles or shoals of fish. They like to play & often display their joy with incredible leaps from the water. Did you know that the dolphin is recognised as one of the world's most intelligent animals?