When you are on the THUNDER CAT, you will have an amazing chance to see one of the world's most magical creatures of the deep blue sea. The dolphins found off the coast of Wildwood and Cape May are the Atlantic Bottle Nosed Dolphin.

Markings on the bodies of atlantic bottle nosed dolphins, especially the dorsal fin and previous injuries help us to determine if the same dolphins return back to the Wildwood and Cape May coast each year.

This species of dolphin has the largest brain of the small toothed whales. Yes, they do fall within the whale family. The large brain of the Atlantic Bottle Nosed dolphin is not just a sign of intelligence. While they are known for their intelligence the large brain is helpful in echolocation. In addition to this dolphins can recognize their reflections in a mirror. The only other animals that can do this are people and chimpanzees.

Dolphins never go completely to sleep. They are able to shut off half their brain and rest, while the other half helps them breathe.

Dolphins have a 1 year gestation period; therefore many of the dolphins that we have seen mating one year may in fact be the same ones we see giving birth the next year. A dolphin mother will nurse her calf for 18 months. During the birth process a dolphin may be assisted by another female dolphin. At times it is this "auntie" dolphin that throws the baby up for its first breath of air. The baby dolphin is very dark in color when it is born and about 3 feet in length.

The dolphins following behind the THUNDER CAT is a way for them to get exercise and recreation. Adult dolphins are often seen showing the young how to ride the wake.

The dolphin's biggest threat is MAN. This is done through irresponsible boating and most of all pollution. Another cause of injuries to dolphins is plastic straws. The dolphins mistake them for fish and ingest them. This is also the reason that we do not use straws aboard the THUNDER CAT.

We hope that you have enjoyed reading about the atlantic bottle nosed dolphin. Now come out and see the mystery unfold before your eyes.