Species MammalsDall's Porpoise

Dall's Porpoise

Phocoenoides dalli

CommonMammal
Illustration of Dall's Porpoise (Phocoenoides dalli)

Dall's Porpoise is the speediest small cetacean in North American waters, reaching burst speeds of 34 mph and producing distinctive rooster-tail spray when surfacing at high speed. Its bold black-and-white pattern, stocky build, and tiny head are distinctive. Dall's porpoises are enthusiastic bow-riders and are commonly encountered off the Pacific Coast.

Habitat
Cold offshore and coastal North Pacific waters
Diet
Squid, herring, hake, and small schooling fish
How common
Common

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