How do Maui Dolphins eat?

Maui dolphins, also known as *Cephalorhynchus hectori maui*, are small dolphins that live in the shallow coastal waters of New Zealand's North Island. They are known for their unique diet and hunting techniques:

What they eat:

* Fish: They primarily feed on small fish like anchovies, sardines, and gobies.

* Squid: Maui dolphins also consume squid, which they hunt in the shallow waters where they live.

* Crustaceans: Some evidence suggests they may also eat crustaceans, like shrimp and crabs.

How they hunt:

* Echolocation: Like other dolphins, they use echolocation to navigate and locate prey. They emit high-pitched clicks and analyze the echoes to pinpoint the location and size of their targets.

* Cooperative hunting: It's believed they sometimes cooperate with other dolphins to herd fish into shallow water before feeding.

Important Note: Maui dolphins are critically endangered, with an estimated population of less than 50 individuals. Their small numbers and restricted habitat make them extremely vulnerable to threats like fishing nets, habitat degradation, and pollution.