Hawaiian Spinner Dolphins

Flying Spinner Dolphins

A duo of Spinner Dolphins fly above calm blue ocean. Spinner Dolphins are known–and named–for their airborne acrobatics. They will often shoot straight up out of the water, spinning 2 to 5 times, and then plunge back into the ocean.

No one is certain exactly what the behavior’s purpose is, but we think it might just have to do with having some fun.

In Hawaii, Spinner Dolphins typically spend the day resting together as pods in shallower, sandy-bottomed areas with clear water. It is believed this environment offers protection and gives them better rest from possible predators. During the evening they head to the open ocean to hunt, often then returning to the same restful bay in the morning.

Photographer: Wayne Hoggard NOAA/NMFS/SEFSC

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