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The Hawaiian Spinner Dolphin is a unique species of cetacean found in the near coastal and offshore waters throughout the Hawaiian island chain. Their Hawaiian name is Nai'a. Hawaiian Spinner Dolphins get their name from the spinning motion that they make when jumping out of the water. These acrobatic marine mammals can reach lengths of approximately 6ft and weigh up to 190lbs. Hawaiian Spinner Dolphin generally travel in groups (also known as "pods") that can number anywhere from 10 up to 150+ individuals.
Nai'a can be seen year-round in the near shore areas in and around the Hawaiian Islands. Keep your eyes focused on the horizon and you just might catch a glimpse of their signature jump!!
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Scientific Name: Stenella longirostris
Hawaiian Name: Nai'a
Size: 1.7 to 2.2 meters, 75 kilograms; males slightly larger than females
Teeth: 45 to 65 sharp-pointed teeth
Food: Fish — small deep-ocean species like lantern fish, shrimp and squid
Habitat: Mainly offshore, nearshore in certain island chains
Range: Tropical, subtropical and warm temperate world ocean
Status: Population unknown, but common in most parts of its range; substantial declines have occurred in the eastern tropical Pacific
All the images seen in this post were provided by the professional photographers at Island Images Photography. IIP is a Hawaii-based photography company that specializes in underwater images of local marine life. For more information and to see their portfolio, please visit the company website at www.islandimagesphoto.com.
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