Hector’s dolphin is one of the smallest types of dolphins. Adult Hector’s dolphins typically measure around 4 to 5 feet (1.2 to 1.5 meters) long. Females are usually larger than males. Despite its short body length, the animal has a relatively large tail fin. Its snout does not have the beak shape seen among most types of dolphins. Hector’s dolphin is also noted for having a highly rounded fin on the top of its back. There are two subspecies of Hector’s dolphin, the Māui dolphin and the South Island Hector’s dolphin. The Māui dolphin usually has a longer body than the South Island subspecies.
Hector’s dolphin is known for its distinctive coloring. The animal’s body is mostly gray, with a white belly and throat. The animal’s lower jaw is also lighter in color, but the tip of its jaw is dark. The back fin, flippers, sides of the head, and tail are black. A thin black line runs left to right along the top of its head, near the blowhole.
Hector’s dolphins are native to the coasts of New Zealand. One subspecies, the Māui dolphin, is only found off the northwestern coast of New Zealand’s North Island. The other subspecies, the South Island Hector’s dolphin, inhabits the coastal waters around the South Island. The dolphins rarely travel long distances. Most of them live in shallower water within 25 miles (40 kilometers) of land.
The dolphins typically live in small groups of fewer than 10 animals. However, scientists have also observed much larger groups of more than 50 dolphins. Most female dolphins give birth to a single calf every two to four years. After giving birth, mothers travel with their calves for about two years. The dolphins primarily feed on such marine animals as fish and squid.
There has been a significant decline in the population of Hector’s dolphins since the 1960’s. The dolphins are harmed by fishing and other human activities in their waters. The Māui dolphin is considered critically endangered.
