Species · GBIF taxon 5220069
Pacific White-sided Dolphin
Lagenorhynchus obliquidensAlso known as Hookfin Porpoise, Pacific White-sided Porpoise, Lags
Pacific white-sided dolphins are exceptionally gregarious and energetic marine mammals, famous for their high-flying acrobatics and bow-riding behavior. They travel in highly social pods that can range from dozens to thousands of individuals, often associating with other cetaceans and sea lions. Their striking coloration features a dark grey back, light grey sides, and a brilliant white belly, complemented by a highly curved, hook-shaped dorsal fin.
MarineAcrobaticSocial
Licensed referenceNMFS Southwest Fisheries Science Center (NOAA) / Public domain · cc0
- diet
- Small schooling fish, squid, and anchovies
- family
- Delphinidae
- threats
- Bycatch in commercial gillnets, marine debris, and ocean noise pollution
- life Span
- 35 to 45 years
LC
Safe to observe from a vessel at a respectful distance.
Protected under the Marine Mammal Protection Act, these dolphins are highly sensitive to vessel noise and harassment.
Never approach, feed, or attempt to swim with wild dolphins; always maintain a slow, predictable vessel course.- Watch from a distance: Maintain a distance of at least 100 yards to avoid disrupting their natural behaviors.
- Look for bow-riding: These dolphins often seek out vessels to ride the pressure waves created by the bow.
- Listen for vocalizations: On quiet days near a pod, you may hear their clicks and whistles through the air.