REPRODUCTION
Calves
are usually born in the autumn although there is such flexibility that
some authorities
doubt
that a special breeding season exists.
It
is reported that in New Zeeland females and newborn calves swim along the
coast of the
North
Island in october and november.
The
female produces her offspring after a gestation period of 16 months. There
appears to
be
a strong responsibility towards members of the group, mothers naturally
being protective
of
their young. In addition, members of the group seem to protect and assist
injured
colleagues.