LOCATION
Hourglass dolphins are found only in the polar regions Southern
Hemisphere. They can be found as far south as the edges of Antarctica and
range to the southernmost areas of Australia, New Zealand, and South
America. Though some strandings of this species has been recorded in New
Zealand, these dolphins prefer living offshore and are seen infrequently.
APPEARANCE
The hourglass dolphin is most easily recognized by its unique white
"hourglass" marking against a largely black body. Its underside is also
white, though both sides of the fluke are black. The two white patches
that make up the hourglass shape are often connected by points or at least
a thin white line, though in some individuals the two white patches do not
touch. The forward patch extends to the melon region and often there is a
thin white line circling the eye.
The rostrum is short and black in color. The dorsal fin is easily
notable and concave, though in some individuals it becomes sharply hooked
backwards. Pectoral flippers may also have a definite "elbow" and curve
back sharply on their leading edge.
DIET & BEHAVIOR
Stomach contents of stranded hourglass dolphins has revealed that they
feed on small fish, crustaceans, and squid.
Usually found in groups of 7-10, these dolphins are not at all shy when
encountered and often bow ride, even approaching slower moving vessels.
Sometimes they'll spin while riding the waves. When they bowride, they
swim in long low leaps and may resemble a porpoising penguin. They may
also create a "roostertail" of spray when surfacing to breathe at high
speeds.
REPRODUCTION & LONGEVITY
Since these dolphins are sighted irregularly, details on their
lifespan and reproduction are unknown.
THREATS
Though three hourglass dolphins were once accidentally ensnared in a
gill net, their contact with human activities is very slight. They are not
considered threatened.
