A remarkable photograph capturing a dolphin in mid-flight has captivated nature enthusiasts, who have affectionately nicknamed the creature the “Michael Jordan” of sea mammals due to its impressive aerial abilities.
This breathtaking image, shared on the Pacific Whale Foundation’s Instagram account, features a Pantropical spotted dolphin leaping high above the ocean. The foundation’s research team captured the striking moment on March 4 off the coast of Maui’s western shores, as reported by KTLA.
The Instagram post emphatically stated, “THIS IS NOT AI,” introducing “Air Dolphin,” a dolphin estimated to achieve leaps of up to 15 feet into the air.
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The post further elaborated that Pantropical spotted dolphins typically reach lengths of 6 to 7 feet and can weigh around 250 pounds, highlighting the athletic prowess of these fascinating marine creatures.
It went on to explain that pantropical spotted dolphins grow to about 6 to 7 feet and weigh about 250 pounds.
“If a human could match this feat relative to their body size, it would be like jumping clear over a basketball hoop.”
Pantropical, which have a a streamlined body, short beak and a small tail, are the only species of dolphin in the North Pacific Ocean without a dorsal fin, according to the National Marine Fisheries Service.
They can be found in the cold to temperate waters of the Pacific Ocean, with their range from northern Baja California all the way to the Gulf of Alaska, Russia and Japan, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.
The NOAA noted that these dolphins are “acrobatic” and can leap more than 20 feet over the surface of the water.
They are also incredibly fast swimmers, reaching average speeds of 16 miles per hour and short bursts of 22 miles per hour.
Known as energetic dolphins, they are highly social and are often seen traveling with other species like rough-toothed dolphins, short-finned pilot whales and spinner dolphins.
They are typically located in tropical and subtropical waters around the world. Scientists estimate that there are about 68,000 northern right whale dolphins in the entire North Pacific Ocean, the NOAA noted.
