description Hourglass Dolphin Overview
The hourglass dolphin, Lagenorhynchus cruciger, is a small oceanic dolphin found in Antarctic and subantarctic waters. Its common name refers to the pale markings along each flank, which contrast with the animal's black back and can resemble an hourglass when viewed from above. The species inhabits cold, open seas and is often observed in small groups, sometimes riding the bow waves of ships operating in the Southern Ocean.
help Hourglass Dolphin FAQ
Where does the Hourglass Dolphin live?
The hourglass dolphin, scientifically known as Lagenorhynchus cruciger, is a small oceanic dolphin found exclusively in Antarctic and subantarctic waters. It is one of the very few cetacean species that prefers the extreme cold of the Southern Ocean.
What does an Hourglass Dolphin look like?
The dolphin features a striking black back and white flanks that overlap to create a distinctive hourglass-like pattern when viewed from above. This highly recognizable coloration is exactly how the marine mammal got its common name.
How large is the Hourglass Dolphin?
Hourglass dolphins are relatively small, growing to an average length of about 1.6 to 1.8 meters (5 to 6 feet). They typically weigh around 90 to 120 kilograms (200 to 265 pounds) when fully grown.
Is the Hourglass Dolphin an endangered species?
Currently, the hourglass dolphin is classified as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. Because they inhabit such remote, freezing waters away from human civilization, they face very few threats from human activity.
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