Dusky dolphin

Pod of Dusky Dolphins. Photo copyright: Kim Westerskov (DOC USE ONLY).

Pod of dusky dolphins

In New Zealand, dusky dolphins appear south of East Cape and are rare in more northern waters.  This species is confined to the southern hemisphere in temperate and subantarctic waters between around 26°S and 55°N.
Dusky dolphin leaping out of the water.

Facts about dusky dolphin

Did you know that the dusky dolphin has virtually no beak? Learn more about this species.

Dolphins caught in a recreational setnet. Photo copyright: Anon (DOC USE ONLY).

Threats to dusky dolphin

Set net fishing poses one of the greatest threats to dusky dolphins in New Zealand waters. Find out other threats and actions that are being taken to save this species.

Dusky Dolphin. Photo copyright: Kim Westerskov (DOC USE ONLY).

DOC's work with dusky dolphin

Learn about DOC's recovery plan for the dusky dolphin.

Dusky dolphin swimming under water, Cook Strait Area. Photo: Simon Childerhouse.

You can help dusky dolphin

You can learn about ways to help protect the dusky dolphin.

Highlights:

Swimmers with a pod of dusky dolphin.

Review of dusky dolphin watching, Kaikoura

View a report on the effects of tourism on dusky dolphins at Kaikoura, and make an online submission.

 
 

Find out more

Publication

Dolphins in NZ waters factsheet (PDF, 166K)

Marine Mammal Action Plan 2005-2010 (PDF, 336K)

Publication

Sharing our coasts with marine mammals

This brochure summarises the simple rules you need to follow around whales, dolphins or seals.

Marine mammals of NZ poster

Information

Marine and coastal conservation

Contact

To report whale or dolphin sightings or strandings phone the DOC HOTline 24 hour emergency number:

0800 DOCHOTline (0800 362 468)

 

Tools

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