™

Fishin' for Facts: Hourglass Dolphins

Common name: Hourglass Dolphin

Scientific name: Family Delphinidae:

Genus species:  Lagenorhynchus cruciger

Very few hourglass dolphins have been measured. Not enough have been weighed or measured to know maximum or average sizes or weights. They measured from 163 to 187 cm (64 to 74 inches) long. Those measured weighed between 82 to 94 kg (180 to 207 pounds).   

They probably eat small fish and squid. Scientists don't know about any predators they might have, but because of size and where they live, it is very possible killer whales prey on them.

Hourglass dolphins are beautiful, black and white dolphins. They are found in antarctic and subantarctic waters. It is rarely seen near land. Very little is known about this unusual dolphin.

One scientists says these dolphins are "avid bow riders." Which means they ride along the front (bow) of a boat. The boat pulls them along and makes them swim more quickly.

These dolphins have been seen in the company of  Arnoux's beaked whales, fin whales, sei whales, and minke whales. Very little is known about the natural history of this animal. Reproduction, mortality and other information about the hourglass dolphin is unknown.

Back to the Fishin' for Facts page

Copyright 2009-1995 WhaleTimes, Inc. All Rights Reserved. No portion of this website can be used in any other works without written permission of WhaleTimes, Inc.