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Hourglass Dolphin

The hourglass dolphin gets its unique name from its striking black and white pattern on the side of its body, which resembles two touching triangles, or an hourglass!  

 

Hourglass dolphins live in the waters surrounding Antarctica and can be found swimming in groups of one to a hundred dolphins!  These ocean explorers can be found in open waters of the Southern Oceans, rarely coming near the shore. Although they live in remote waters, these creatures are surprisingly social, known to travel alongside other dolphin species as well as larger whales like minke whales and fin whales. While swimming with these creatures, they sometimes ride the bow waves of whales. These playful creatures have also been observed going out of their way to interact with boats and other vessels. 

Hourglass dolphins primarily feed on plankton, squid, crustaceans, and small fish. Scientists predict that these dolphins are mostly hunted by killer whales. Their striking black and white coloring helps them evade predators — their lighter belly blends with the bright ocean surface when seen from below, while their darker back helps it disappear into the deep waters when viewed from above — a form of camouflage called countershading! 

 

 

Hourglass dolphins are classified as a species of Least Concern by the IUCN. Because of their remote habitats, not much is known about this species and their behaviors and threats.  

 

 

Rising sea temperatures pose a threat to many marine species due to the numerous ways warming waters impact our oceans, from melting sea ice to bleaching coral reefs. Supporting policies that reduce global carbon emissions, like stopping offshore drilling, is critical to addressing this threat to our planet and its wildlife Learn more about Oceana’s work to protect our climate and how you can help here. 

 

 

 

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