Population and Distribution
The species is endemic to the temperate and tropical areas of the Atlantic Ocean. It has been widely observed in the western end of the Gulf Stream, between Florida and Bermuda. It is also present in the Gulf of Mexico. More infrequent sightings have been made further east, off the Azores and Canary Islands. Northerly sightings have been made as far north as Cape Cod across to the south-western tip of Spain. They are certainly present further south too as far as Rio Grande do Sul in Brazil and across to west Africa. However the distribution is poorly understood in these areas.
About 20 years ago, there were only about 80 dolphins in the Bahamas. Now, 20 years later, there are almost 200 dolphins there. On account of their similar appearance to other dolphins in their range it is difficult to be sure of the Atlantic Spotted Dolphin's population. A conservative estimate is around 100,000 individuals.
Read more about this topic: Atlantic Spotted Dolphin
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