Maui Dolphin: Endangered Species Spotlight

The Maui dolphin is a tiny dolphin that is endemic to New Zealand. This beautiful cetacean is also the world’s smallest dolphin and rarest subspecies of dolphin, growing to a maximum length of 1.5 m (4.9 ft).  These dolphins have distinctive markings with black, white and grey coloration and a short snout. Their dorsal fin is rounded, almost looking like a Mickey Mouse ear popping out of the water. A playful, social creature that lives in small pods, they can be seen chasing each other, playing with seaweed and blowing water bubbles. They tend to live in shallow water, close to shore for protection from large predators.