Porpoises
Porpoises
Phocoenidae
The Shy and Elusive Small Cetaceans: Porpoises (Phocoenidae) are small, toothed whales closely related to dolphins but differing in appearance, behavior, and habitat preferences. Found in coastal and shallow marine waters of the Northern Hemisphere and parts of South America, porpoises are generally more reserved and less acrobatic than their dolphin cousins. There are seven recognized species of porpoises, including the Harbor Porpoise (Phocoena phocoena), the Vaquita (Phocoena sinus), and the Dall’s Porpoise (Phocoenoides dalli). These compact cetaceans typically measure 1.2–2.5 m (4–8 ft) in length and weigh between 30–220 kg (66–485 lb), depending on the species. Porpoises have robust bodies, small triangular dorsal fins, and rounded heads with blunt snouts — lacking the elongated “beak” seen in dolphins. Porpoises are generally shy and elusive, avoiding boats and rarely performing leaps above water. They are fast swimmers and use echolocation to navigate and hunt in murky waters. Their diet consists mainly of fish, squid, and crustaceans, captured using sharp, spade-shaped teeth, distinct from the conical teeth of dolphins. Most porpoises live in small groups or alone, though some species may gather in larger numbers when food is abundant. They communicate with clicks and whistles, but their sounds are often higher-pitched and less varied than dolphins. Sadly, several porpoise species face serious threats. The critically endangered Vaquita is on the brink of extinction due to accidental bycatch in fishing nets. Habitat degradation, noise pollution, and climate change also threaten their survival.