TIMES RECORD • August 12, 2021
Harbor porpoises are small when it comes to marine mammals. They are similar in scale to a harbor seal, measuring up to six feet or so in length. While we see seals fairly often along the coast, porpoises are a rare treat – their small triangular dorsal fins gently breaking the surface as they travel along in groups or pods. You can watch them travel along in one direction for a little while before they dive down beneath the surface, arching their backs as they go to signal that you won’t see them again for a few minutes. While both dolphins and porpoises are both toothed whales, they are parts of different families (Delphinidae and Phocoenidae) that evolved separately. Porpoise vocalizations are at a higher frequency than humans can hear – unlike those of a dolphin.