Which dolphin species is known for its distinctive hourglass pattern on its side?

The dolphin known for a distinctive hourglass pattern on its side is the hourglass dolphin. Its scientific name is Lagenorhynchus cruciger, and its contrasting black-and-white markings make it one of the easiest dolphins to recognize in Antarctic and sub-Antarctic waters.

Each flank has a white patch toward the front of the body and another toward the rear. A narrow white band connects them, producing a rough hourglass outline when the animal is viewed from the side. The pattern varies among individuals, so it is not a perfectly geometric shape.

The species’ scientific name, cruciger, means “cross-carrier.” It refers to the dark pattern on the back, which can vaguely resemble a Maltese cross or cross pattée when seen from above. Whalers historically gave the animal colorful nicknames such as “sea cow” and “sea skunk.”

The hourglass dolphin is relatively small but fast and agile, reaching roughly 1.8 meters in length. It can be confused with other black-and-white dolphins, especially the southern right whale dolphin, but that species lacks a dorsal fin, while the hourglass dolphin generally has a tall, curved one.