Northern Right-whale Dolphin

About this species

Size

About 2–3m

Weight

Roughly 60–115kg

Diet

Squid and small fish

Habitat

Cool, deep North Pacific waters

The northern right-whale dolphin is a slim, streamlined dolphin distinguished by the complete absence of a dorsal fin. Its back is glossy black, while a white patch runs along the underside and expands around the genital region; the beak is short but distinct. Adults measure about 2–3m and weigh roughly 60–115kg (Wikipedia, general species account). The narrow tail stock leads to pointed flukes.

The species inhabits cool, deep waters of the North Pacific and feeds on squid and small mesopelagic fish. It is an energetic swimmer that travels with a low, bounding motion and may leap in long, shallow arcs. Groups can contain hundreds or occasionally thousands of animals, and mixed schools with Pacific white-sided dolphins and other small cetaceans are common (Wikipedia, general species account).

Description: Wildlife of Japan guide, Wildlife of Everywhere (wildlifeofeverywhere.com); general species information paraphrased from Wikipedia (CC BY-SA)