24 November 2005

The carcass of a Hectors dolphin can provide crucial information to those researching the world's rarest and smallest dolphin.

Each year about five or six dolphins are found washed up or stranded on Southland beaches, but their deaths did not have to be in vain, said Department of Conservation biodiversity ranger Sally Chesterfield.

The department is urging the public to report these discoveries as the carcass can provide information on ecology, biology, distribution, genetic material, any diseases they may carry, and cause of death.

Ms Chesterfield said the Hectors dolphin was only found in a few locations around New Zealand and Southland was one of those special places.

She said nationally the population was estimated to be 7350.

Pods of Hectors Dolphins can often be seen in pockets around the Southland coast where PhD student Judy Rodda continues to study them.

Ms Chesterfield said Hectors dolphins were easily distinguished by the black, grey and white patterning on their bodies.

“They have a small rounded dorsal fin, which looks like a ‘mickey-mouse' ear stuck on their back. They are much smaller than other dolphins, growing to maximum of 1.6 meters in length.”

They were also described as being dumpy in appearance with a rounded nose.

“If a dolphin of this description is found on a beach please do not approach or attempt to move the dolphin as these animals carry diseases that can be transmitted to humans,” Ms Chesterfield said.

She said Hectors dolphins could strand at any time of the year.

However, they were more visible during the summer months as people used the marine environment more regularly, more recreational boaters were out and therefore a greater chance of contact with the dolphins.

While the department was keen to be informed of stranded or dead Hectors Dolphins, it did not need to be in formed of any sightings.

Contact the Department of Conservation on +64 3 214 4589 or 0800 DOCHOT (0800 362468). A department ranger will collect the carcass for further assessment.

Ends

For more information please contact Sally Chesterfield at the Department of Conservation, Tel: +64 3 214 4589.

Further information

• There are four distinguishable genetic groups of Hectors Dolphin, Banks Peninsula, Te TeWaewae Bay, Porpoise Bay and the sub group of Maui dolphin in the North Island.
• In New Zealand all seals, whales and dolphins are protected under the marine Mammals Protection Act 1978, which is administered by the Department of Conservation.

Find out more about how to protect Hector's dolphins.