Common dolphin (Delphinus delphis) habitat preferences using data from two platforms of opportunity

► We modelled common dolphin ecological niche from different opportunity data sources. ► We compared the reliability of both data sources as compared to dedicated surveys. ► Chlorophyll concentration was the most important variable for both data sources. ► This supports previous studies showing ecological specialization in schooling fish. ► This specialization should be considered in evaluating the species conservation needs.