THE COMMON DOLPHIN 



It is common in the Bay of Biscay, and also in the Mediterranean, where 

 it was well known to the ancient Greeks, who were fond of representing its 

 elegant outlines on their coins. 



In the British Islands it often appears off the coast of Cornwall and in 

 the Channel, when it sometimes gets entangled in the fishermen's nets. 

 Though rare in Scotland, it has been captured both on the eastern and 

 western coasts and also in the Shetlands, 



It is extremely sociable in its habits and may often be seen in the 

 Mediterranean and other favourite waters, as it plays in large shoals around 

 vessels, leaping out of the sea and showing wonderful agility and 

 gracefulness. 



The food consists of various fishes, including herrings and mackerel ; 

 cuttlefish and crustaceans are also eaten. 



The mother Dolphin shows great affection for her single young one, 

 which is carefully nursed and tended. 



The flesh was at one time much sought after as an article of food, 

 especially in France, and like the meat of other cetaceans was looked upon 

 as fish and allowed to be eaten on fast days. 



II. 



97 



