The waters off Kauai are home to several species of nai`a (dolphin), including bottlenose, spinner, and spotted dolphins. These highly intelligent, extremely playful creatures can be found traveling along the Na Pali coast every morning. The dolphins in Hawaii can often be seen “running” or leaping from the water in a series of dives that enable them to reach greater speeds. Dolphins love to ride the bow wave of fast-moving vessels.
Types of Hawaii Dolphins
Pacific Bottlenose Dolphin
Known for their playfulness around boats and amazing performances at aquariums, bottlenose dolphins are probably the most popular of all dolphin species. Adults weigh between 600 and 850 pounds, ranging in size from seven to eleven feet in length. It is believed that over 3,000 bottlenose dolphins inhabit Hawaiian waters. They can be identified by their white or pink bellies, medium gray backs, and light gray sides.
Spinner Dolphin
These dolphins are named for their amazing habit of leaping high into the air and revolving several times before falling back into the water. Spinner dolphins are the smallest of Hawaii’s common dolphins; they usually weigh between 130 and 200 pounds, ranging from five to six feet in length. Aside from the spectacular spinning, these dolphins may be recognized by a sharply defined dark gray “cape” on their backs, a stripe of lighter gray on their sides, and a white or pink belly. Researchers aren't sure why the dolphins spin, but it sure looks like they’re having fun!
Hawaii Dolphin Behavior
Dolphins are very social creatures that form long-lasting groups that range in size from a few animals (pods) to several hundred members, known as schools or herds.
Several species of dolphins are spotted every morning along the Na Pali coast
Play Behavior
Whales and dolphins are highly perceptive of their surrounding environment. Dolphins are often found playing with inanimate objects, both in captivity and in the wild. They have frequently been seen using plastic bags, pieces of seaweed or any other debris as objects to toss around, drag off one’s pectoral fins or flukes, and exchange with other members. Such observations are suggestive of playing games similar to our version of “tag” or “catch”. Play in animals is a way of learning or practicing important life skills.
Bow Riding
Many species of dolphins and some species of whales are attracted to the pressure wave created by moving boats. This common behavior is often seen with the animals riding on the bow wave or stern wave of a boat. It is likely that bow riding provides a more efficient way for dolphins to move through the water.
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