We report here the genetic diversity of killer whales around New Zealand and compare samples collected in this region ( n = 11) with larger geographic databases of mtDNA control region sequences to investigate the relationship of the New Zealand killer whales with more distant populations/ecotypes. Eight variable sites defined four haplotypes, revealing a low mtDNA genetic diversity when compared with other cetacean species an...

We analyse short‐term individual and group behavioural reactions and long‐term individual responses of bottlenose dolphins ( Tursiops truncatus ) in New Zealand to remote skin biopsy sampling. The biopsy system employed uses a small stainless steel tip (5‐mm diameter, 9‐mm length) mounted on a lightweight polycarbonate projectile, fired from a modified veterinary rifle with adjustable pressure. Individual and group behavioural...

The conservation status of New Zealand (NZ) marine mammals (suborders Cetacea and Pinnipedia) is reappraised using the 2008 version of the NZ Threat Classification System. The list comprises 56 taxa (named species or subspecies, and as yet unnamed forms or types) in the following categories: Threatened—eight taxa (five Nationally Critical and three Nationally Endangered); Vagrant—six taxa; Migrant—20 taxa; and Data Deficient—1...