In recent years, Siegfried & Roy's mission to share with their fans the magic of animals has extended from land to sea. Their Dolphin Habitat, located adjacent to The Secret Garden at The Mirage, is an aquatic educational and research facility, and home to 11 Atlantic Bottlenose Dolphins. These marine mammals are best known for their jumping abilities (up to 20 feet high!) and playful interaction. The majority of Siegfried & Roy's dolphins were born at the habitat, making The Mirage one of the most successful breeding environments in the world.
About the Dolphins
• The whale family includes all whales, dolphins and porpoises. The scientific name for this group of animals is cetaceans.
• Cetaceans are mammals. This means that they share five basic traits with all other mammals. They are warm-blooded, breathe air, give birth to live young, nurse their newborns and have follicles around their mouth.
• Cetaceans are well-adapted to life in water. Their streamlined bodies make swimming easy for them. The placement of their blowhole, at the top of their head, allows them to breathe air without interrupting smooth swimming patterns.
• Dolphins often travel in social groups called “pods.” The oldest mothers are usually the leaders of these groups. They communicate with each other through chirps, whistles and squeals and often help each other in distress.
• Babies are born tail-first. As soon as birth is complete, the mother or a helping companion pushes the newborn dolphin to the surface of the water so it can take its first breath.
