Short-beaked common dolphins are medium-sized cetaceans with a rounded forehead (melon) and a moderately long beak (rostrum). Their sleek bodies are easily recognisable by a distinctive colour pattern that forms an hourglass shape along the sides, beneath the triangular dorsal fin. A dark grey cape runs along the back from the head to just below the dorsal fin, forming a ‘V’ on each side of the body and creating the characteristic hourglass pattern.

Just behind the head and extending toward the dorsal fin is a yellow-tan patch that contrasts with the darker grey cape along the back. Posterior to the dorsal fin, towards the tail, the body becomes a lighter grey. A dark stripe extends from the lower jaw to the flipper, contributing to the species’ complex and striking facial pattern.

Young and juvenile short-beaked common dolphins typically display paler and less distinct markings than adults. In addition, colour patterns may vary between populations found in different geographical regions.

This species is highly sociable and energetic and usually seen in large pods averaging hundreds of individuals. They are often active at the surface of the water and love to leap and high speed out of the water, flipping or somersaulting, or swimming along side ships.