Short-beaked common dolphins hunt in groups of ten to ten thousand animals. They can reach speeds up to 45 kilometers per hour. They are also attracted to ships and like to play in their bow waves. Short-beaked common dolphins live in oceans; they aren't often seen swimming close to shore, usually preferring water no shallower than 200 meters. Nevertheless, they are occasionally seen in the Dutch section of the North Sea. Short-beaked common dolphins are the most common dolphin species in the region of the Mediterranean Sea. Pictures on ancient Greek vases show that it's been that way for centuries.