Maui Dolphin Facts

Maui dolphins are one of the two subspecies of hectors dolphins. They can live up to 20 years which is a short lifespan compared to other dolphins. Female Maui dolphins can grow 5.5 feet in length and weighs approximately 110 pounds. Females have there first calf between 7-9 years of age. Maui dolphins are known as endangered species as there a only 47 individuals around the world.

To navigate through the ocean, they use echolocation to find there way. Following along with the hectors dolphin they use short, high frequency clicks to communicate with one another. Maui dolphins are normally close to shore in small groups and are seen in water less than 20 m deep but may range further offshore. Before 2002 these Maui dolphins were once called the north island hectors dolphin until Dr Alan Barker studying the differences described it as a subspecies of them. They have a very low rate, tending to breed at just a fast enough rate to replace the population that naturally dies.