Key Takeaways
- Scientists are seeking the public’s help in reporting sightings of Māui or Hector’s dolphins in North Island waters
- Māui dolphins are critically endangered, with only 54 adult individuals remaining, while Hector’s dolphins are vulnerable
- Sightings of these dolphins in the Bay of Islands are rare, with only two confirmed sightings of Hector’s dolphins in Northland in the past 100 years
- The public is encouraged to report any sightings to the Department of Conservation and to keep a safe distance from the dolphins to avoid disturbing them
- Genetic testing will be used to determine the identity of the recently spotted dolphin and to learn more about its population and habitat
Introduction to the Māui and Hector’s Dolphins
Scientists are calling on the public to report any sightings of Māui or Hector’s dolphins in North Island waters. These dolphins are not only rare, but also endangered, with Māui dolphins being critically endangered and Hector’s dolphins being vulnerable. A recent sighting of a solitary dolphin in the Bay of Islands has delighted marine scientists, who are eager to learn more about this rare creature. The dolphin was spotted by researcher Jochen Zaeschmar, who is now working to determine whether it is a Hector’s or Māui dolphin through genetic testing.
The Rarity of Hector’s Dolphins in Northland
According to Department of Conservation marine species advisor Kristina Hillock, sightings of Hector’s or Māui dolphins in the Bay of Islands are extremely rare. In fact, this would be only the second confirmed sighting of a Hector’s dolphin in Northland in the past 100 years. Hector’s dolphins were once found along the coast of most of the South Island, as well as parts of the North Island, but today they are classified as nationally vulnerable and live in different sub-populations around the South Island. They are only occasionally seen around the North Island, making this sighting all the more significant.
Characteristics of Māui and Hector’s Dolphins
The Māui dolphin is a subspecies of the Hector’s dolphin and is found on the west coast of the North Island, mainly between Taranaki and Kaipara Harbour. Unfortunately, there are only an estimated 54 adult Māui dolphins remaining, making conservation efforts crucial to their survival. Both Hector’s and Māui dolphins are grey and white, with black markings and a distinctive black rounded fin, shaped like Mickey Mouse’s ear. While they can be difficult to distinguish from each other without DNA testing, they are readily identifiable from other dolphins. People who spot the dolphin are encouraged to call the Department of Conservation to report their sighting.
Encouraging Public Involvement
Zaeschmar notes that Hector’s and Māui dolphins are known to be friendly and social, often interacting with boats and people. However, it is essential that people who spot the dolphin keep a safe distance to avoid disturbing it. Unfortunately, these dolphins are prone to being hit by propellers and boats, which can have devastating consequences. By reporting sightings and keeping a safe distance, the public can play a crucial role in helping to conserve these rare and endangered creatures. As Zaeschmar emphasizes, "It is really exciting to have this animal here and we encourage the public to report sightings, but please stick to the rules. They are prone to get hit by propellers and boats, sadly all around the country. Just be boat-wise when you are around the animal and give it plenty of space. Please respect its habitat."
The Importance of Conservation Efforts
The recent sighting of the dolphin in the Bay of Islands highlights the need for continued conservation efforts to protect these endangered species. By working together, scientists, conservationists, and the public can help to ensure the long-term survival of Māui and Hector’s dolphins. Genetic testing will play a crucial role in determining the identity of the recently spotted dolphin and learning more about its population and habitat. This information will be invaluable in informing conservation efforts and protecting these incredible creatures. As the public becomes more aware of the importance of conservation, it is hoped that more people will become involved in reporting sightings and supporting efforts to protect Māui and Hector’s dolphins.