Among the fastest small cetaceans — can sustain 35+ mph for short bursts. Stocky black-and-white body. Famous for bow-riding ships.

Native status: Native to North Pacific

§ Quick facts

SizeBody length 1.8–2.4 m
Weight80–220 kg
LifespanWild 16–22 years
OrderCetacea
FamilyPhocoenidae

§ Encyclopedia

Dall's porpoise is a species of porpoise endemic to the North Pacific. It is the largest of porpoises and the only member of the genus Phocoenoides. The species is named after American naturalist W. H. Dall.

Source: Wikipedia — Dall's porpoise Licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0

§ Identification

Field marks. Stocky black-and-white porpoise with distinctive white flanks against black body; small dorsal fin.

Similar species. Other porpoise species (different patterns).

Voice. High-frequency clicks for echolocation.

§ Diet & behavior

Diet. Squid, fish.

Behavior. Among the fastest small cetaceans (35+ mph). Distinctive bow-riding behavior. North Pacific only.

§ Range

North Pacific coasts

§ Habitat

Cold North Pacific waters

§ Threats

Driftnet bycatch (historic), ship strikes, climate change.

§ Conservation status

According to the IUCN Red List, the dall's porpoise is currently classified as Least Concern.

§ What helps

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§ Further reading

§ Sources cited

  • NOAA Fisheries
  • Marine Mammal Commission
  • IUCN Red List 2018