Rare observations of false killer whales (Pseudorca crassidens) cooperatively feeding with common bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops truncatus) in the Hauraki Gulf, New Zealand

摘要

Multi-species associations of odontocetes remain poorly understood. While their occurrence is occasionally reported, the driving factors behind these interactions are often difcult to ascertain. False killer whales (Pseudorca crassidens) are known to associate with a number of other odontocete species, in particular the common bottlenose dolphin (Tursiops truncatus) (e.g., Leatherwood et al. 1989). However, little is known about the function or extent of these associations.