Hector's dolphin
A species of Piebald dolphins, Also known as Maui's dolphin Scientific name : Cephalorhynchus hectori Genus : Piebald dolphins
Hector's dolphin, A species of Piebald dolphins
Also known as:
Maui's dolphin
Scientific name: Cephalorhynchus hectori
Genus: Piebald dolphins
Content
Description People often ask General Info
Photo By Greg Schechter , used under CC-BY-2.0 /Cropped and compressed from original 
Description
One of the smallest and rarest dolphins in the world, hector's dolphin (Cephalorhynchus hectori) is critically endangered, due in no small part to entanglement in fishing nets. Fewer than one hundred individuals are estimated to remain in the waters around its native New Zealand.
People often ask
General Info
Lifespan
15-20 years
Diet
Hector's dolphin's primary food intake derives from small fish and squid, sustaining itself by hunting in small groups. Its hunting strategy often involves corralling its prey against the ocean surface, allowing for more efficient feeding.
Appearance
Hector's dolphin is a small-sized dolphin with a distinct rounded black dorsal fin and a sleek grey body. Its sides are lighter, transitioning to white on the belly. Its snout is short and blunt, distinguishing it from other dolphins. The males are generally larger and have a more pronounced dorsal fin than females. No significant age-dependent changes in appearance have been reported.
Behavior
Hector's dolphin is a sociable species, displaying playful and acrobatic behaviors, particularly when it is feeding on small fish and squid. It lives in pods of approximately 8-10 individuals and is known for its distinctive jump, leaping sideways out of the water. This behavior, along with its strong territoriality, is crucial for survival.
Population
Decreasing
Scientific Classification
Phylum
Chordates Class
Mammals Order
Whales and dolphins Family
Oceanic dolphins Genus
Piebald dolphins Species
Hector's dolphin 
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