Download AEBR 168 Abundance and distribution of WCSI Hector’s dolphin

Results of 2015 seasonal aerial surveys undertaken to update Hector’s dolphin abundance and distribution estimates along the west coast of the South Island and inform the Threat Management Plan review. Together with similar surveys and analyses of the east coast in 2013 and south coast in 2010, the estimated South Island population of Hector’s dolphin is now 14 849 (CV: 11% 95% CI 11 923-18 492), double the previous estimate from surveys conducted in the late 1990s – early 2000s.