Harbour Porpoises

Harbour porpoises are widespread in the cooler, shallower North Atlantic and Pacific Oceans. In UK waters they are more widely distributed and common than the other species of dolphins and whales. However, in recent years they have become much less frequent in our coastal waters and are now relatively uncommon in the Moray Firth. The reasons for this decline are not fully understood. Adults have a rounded snout and a small triangular dorsal fin. They are usually between 1.4 and 1.7 metres long and weigh between 54 and 65 kilograms.

Their normal life span is seven to nine years, although some animals can live for up to 15 years. A female porpoise begins to breed when three to four years old - but breeding can occur as early as 14 months - and a single calf is born every two years or more. Mating takes place in mid to late summer, the young being born 10 to 12 months later around May to June.

Harbour porpoises usually occur singly or in small loosely formed groups of between two to 10 individuals. Unlike dolphins, they rarely show much above the water and their curved back and small triangular fin are often all that you will see.

Dolphin Awareness

Unless care is taken accidents can result in serious injury to dolphins or porpoises. If you are a power boat or personal watercraft user, please follow these guidelines when you see dolphins or porpoises:-

• Avoid sudden changes in speed or direction. Slowing down suddenly will confuse and scare dolphins and porpoises as much as speeding up.

• Avoid travelling at high speed.

• Look out for groups of dolphins or porpoises and avoid heading straight for them - they may not be aware you are there.

• Avoid swimming with, touching or feeding dolphins - for your safety and theirs. Remember, they are wild animals.

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