The hourglass dolphin was named for the hourglass patterns on its sides. It lives in arctic regions, therefore, it is difficult to study and little is known about it. It does have a stocky body and a well defined rostrum. When they swim, they tend to have s smooth undulating motion. The hourglass dolphin is currently the only dolphin with a dorsal fin constantly found in the southern hemisphere.

Scientific Name: Lagenorhynchus cruciger
Other Names: Wilson's Dolphin
Length: 5.3-6 ft. (1.6-1.8 m.)
Weight: 200-265 lbs. (90-120 kg.)
Teeth: 100-104

Recognition at sea: Due to the striking pattern of colours, Hourglass Dolphins are not likely to be confused with any other species.

Habitat: Hourglass Dolphins prefer deep pelagic waters with a surface temperature of 1-10ºC.

Food & Feeding: It is thought that Hourglass Dolphins prey on small fish.

Behaviour: This species is normally found in units of between 1-6 animals, and occasionally up to 40 individuals gather together for a short amount of time. They associate with Fin Whales and Southern Bottlenose Whales and are highly active. They are well-known for bowriding, and when porpoising they create a highly visible spray. They are commonly seen travelling through a series of low-angled leaps.

Longevity: Unknown.

Estimated Current Population: Unknown.

The Influence of Man: Unknown

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