Peale’s dolphin  (Lagenorhynchus australis)

The biology of Peale’s dolphin is not well known, as it seldom strands, few specimens have been examined, and the species has not been kept in captivity (2) (4) (6). Most feeding appears to occur in kelp beds (4) (8), where small groups of around 5 to 30 individuals are thought to hunt squid, octopus, and sometimes shrimps (2) (4) (6) (9). Larger groups have also been observed (2) (4), and may hunt cooperatively in more open water, ‘herding’ larger shoals of fish (4) (8). Peale’s dolphin is often seen associating with other dolphin species, particularly Commerson’s dolphin (Cephalorhynchus commersonii), and frequently bow-rides, producing loud splashes and slaps when leaping and swimming at the surface (2) (4) (6).

Little information is available on reproduction in this species, but calves have been reported from spring to autumn (October to April) (2) (4). In general, Lagenorhynchus species give birth to a single young after a gestation period of around 10 to 12 months, with the young measuring around one metre at birth (2) (10). Migration in Peale’s dolphin is not well understood, but individuals around southern Tierra del Fuego appear to move inshore in the summer, possibly following fish migrations (4) (11).