video: University of Auckland scientists have used tracking data to recreate dives by a Hector’s dolphin.
Animation shows a dive in real time using tracking information.
Triangle = surfacing (you can hear the splash as it breaks the surface and the breath)
Circle = moves as the dolphin dives down
Blue line = dorsal side up
Yellow line = upside down as the dolphin barrel rolls (on the shallow dive) or swims just above the seabed (on the deep dive)
Red starbursts = when the dolphin chases a fish, preceded by a 'buzz', a fast series of clicks that they use when targeting their prey
Clicks = the slower click, click, click is the dolphin’s echolocation sound
Continuous gentle 'woosh' = the sound of water running over the tag as the dolphin dives or surfaces (like the sound of wind passing if you were riding a bike)
Thin grey line on seabed = indicates the total path of the dolphin track
Source: University of Auckland
Credit: University of Auckland
Journal
Conservation Letters
Method of Research
Observational study
Subject of Research
Animals
Article Title
Subsurface Behaviors of Hector's Dolphins Could Increase Their Risk of Bycatch
Article Publication Date
14-Sep-2025
COI Statement
No COI