Name Lagenorhynchus obliquidens
Alias Pacific spotted dolphin, sickle-finned dolphin, Pacific white-sided dolphin, slow-moving dolphin, Pacific striped dolphin, white-striped dolphin, Pacific white-sided dolphin
Family Artiodactyla Cetacea Delphinidae Lagenorhynchus
Pacific spotted dolphins are very active and expressive, creating large clouds of water. They often leap into the waves, sometimes spinning or flipping in the air, landing on their sides or bellies. They are good fast swimmers, and some individuals may swim together. They like to surf on the ocean waves and ride the stern of ships, and are keen on riding the bow of ships. They seem to appear quietly. They swim close to the water, with only their dorsal fins exposed, resembling sharks. Large groups may break up into smaller groups to feed, but will regroup when resting or swimming. They are often accompanied by other cetaceans; they may also be in the company of sea lions and seals. They are very curious and may approach stationary ships.
Pacific spotted dolphinsLarge groups will create a lot of ripples on the water. So before you start to trap them, you will see a lot of water waves. There are huge differences between individuals, and the younger ones are less obvious. The appearance is very similar to the dark spotted dolphin, but the distribution ranges of the two do not overlap. When swimming fast, Pacific spotted dolphins may create large clouds of water mist, the so-called "rooster tail mist", so if observed from a distance, they may be mistaken for white-rumped porpoises.
Pacific spotted dolphins are highly attached and will not leave if their companions are injured.
Listed in the second level of the List of Key Protected Wildlife in China.