“Discover the mysterious and rarely seen hourglass dolphin, a small yet speedy marine mammal that thrives in the icy waters of the Southern Ocean”
If you’re up for a challenge, spotting the elusive hourglass dolphin (Lagenorhynchus cruciger) might be one of the most rewarding feats for any marine enthusiast. Unlike most dolphins that favor warmer seas, this particular species thrives in the frigid waters south of the Antarctic Convergence. To catch a glimpse of this rare creature, you’ll need to venture into some of the most remote and turbulent parts of the world, including the infamous Drake Passage.
The hourglass dolphin is a striking resident of the Southern Ocean, easily recognizable by its unique black-and-white coloration. Their bodies feature a bold black base with a contrasting white belly, accented by distinctive white stripes along the sides that narrow near the dorsal fin, forming an hourglass shape. This distinctive pattern is more refined and elegant than the simple black-and-white scheme of their orca relatives.
Despite their dramatic appearance, hourglass dolphins are surprisingly small compared to other members of the cetacean family. They weigh in at a maximum of 120 kilograms (265 pounds) and can reach up to 1.9 meters (6.2 feet) in length. Their tall, hooked dorsal fins, often seen curving back towards their bodies, are a notable feature, especially in what are presumed to be adult males.
The biology of hourglass dolphins remains largely a mystery, partly due to their elusive nature. These dolphins have a wide range across the deeper waters of the Southern Ocean, typically staying close to its boundary. They are often seen traveling in small pods, averaging around seven individuals, though larger groups of up to 100 have been observed. Their diet likely consists of small fish, squid, and crustaceans, reflecting their preference for the nutrient-rich waters of the Southern Ocean.
But just how rare are hourglass dolphins? Despite being notoriously hard to study, they are not as rare as one might think. The species was first identified in 1824 by French naturalists Jean René Constant Quoy and Joseph Paul Gaimard, not from physical specimens, but from drawings—an unusual beginning for a species classification. Nearly 200 years later, examining an hourglass dolphin specimen remains a rare privilege. Only a few scientists have had the chance to conduct necropsies, like the team from Massey University in New Zealand who recently examined one that washed ashore on South Island.
According to estimates, there are over 144,000 hourglass dolphins swimming in the world’s oceans today, and the species is classified as “Least Concern” by the IUCN Red List. Despite their relatively healthy population, sightings are infrequent due to their preference for remote, inhospitable regions.
So where is the best place to see an hourglass dolphin? Your best chance lies in the Drake Passage, a stretch of water known for its rough seas and unpredictable weather. For those fortunate enough to spot them, hourglass dolphins are a sight to behold. These agile swimmers are known for their love of bow-riding, often reaching speeds of up to 22 kilometers per hour (13.7 miles per hour). As they glide through the waves, they create a spectacular display, generating sprays of water as they surface.
The hourglass dolphin is a remarkable yet mysterious species, thriving in the harsh conditions of the Southern Ocean. Their elusive nature and remote habitat make them a rare sight, but for those willing to brave the Drake Passage, witnessing these speedy and striking creatures is an unforgettable experience.
