The Ship-Saving Dolphin of New Zealand's Waters

Pelorus Jack was a famous Risso's dolphin. He was a friendly marine mammal known for his interactions with ships in the Cook Strait of New Zealand during the early 20th century. First noticed in 1888 when he joined a steamer bound for Nelson, Pelorus Jack spent the next 24 years escorting boats from Pelorus Sound to treacherous French Pass, a narrow stretch of water between D’Urville Island and the mainland, where the water surges through at up to 8 knots.

Pelorus Jack was not a single dolphin but a nickname given to the various Risso's dolphins that interacted with ships traveling through the Cook Strait between the North Island and South Island of New Zealand. The first known Pelorus Jack was encountered in the late 19th century, and over the years, several different Risso's dolphins took on the name as they displayed a similar behavior of escorting ships through the strait.

The dolphin became well-known for guiding ships safely through treacherous waters, often swimming alongside vessels and surfacing near the bow. It was considered a good omen by sailors and a sign of safe passage. Pelorus Jack's presence was appreciated by sailors, and there were even laws enacted to protect him from harm.

However, the last confirmed sightings of Pelorus Jack occurred in 1912, and the exact fate of this friendly marine creature remains a mystery. It is believed that the various dolphins known as Pelorus Jack may have lived for several decades, contributing to the enduring legend of this extraordinary and helpful animal.

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