Harbor Porpoise
Harbor porpoises are the smallest of the cetaceans found in Alaska. They are members of the Phocoenidae family, which includes six different species of porpoises. Harbor porpoises are found in coastal waters around the world, including Alaska, where they are commonly seen in the summer months.
On our cruises we typically see harbor porpoise in groups of one or two. These private animals typically don't come too close to the yacht, but will sometimes get closer to guests adventuring in kayaks. We often see harbor porpoise in the same area as humpback whales in the islands around Kachemak Bay. Harbor porpoises have a stocky body with a short, rounded snout and no discernible beak. They are dark grey to black on their backs and sides, with a lighter grey or white belly. Adult harbor porpoises typically measure between 4 and 6 feet in length and weigh between 110 and 150 pounds. |
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Harbor porpoises are shy and elusive animals, often avoiding boats and humans. They are typically found in shallow coastal waters less than 600 feet deep. They are known to travel in small groups of up to six individuals, although they are more commonly seen alone or in pairs. Harbor porpoises are carnivores, feeding on a variety of fish and invertebrates, including herring, sand lance, and squid. They are known for their unique feeding behavior, which involves rapid, shallow dives to capture their prey.
In Alaska, harbor porpoises are protected under the Marine Mammal Protection Act. While they are not considered threatened or endangered, their populations have declined in some areas due to human activity, including fishing gear entanglements, pollution, and noise pollution from boats and other human activities.
However, harbor porpoises are difficult to study and monitor due to their elusive nature, so their exact population numbers are not well known. Research efforts are ongoing to better understand their behavior, population dynamics, and conservation needs.
Harbor porpoises may be small, but they are an important part of Alaska's marine ecosystem. They play a vital role in the food chain as both predator and prey, and their presence is an indicator of a healthy marine environment. It's important to protect these shy and elusive animals so that they can continue to thrive in Alaska's coastal waters.
In Alaska, harbor porpoises are protected under the Marine Mammal Protection Act. While they are not considered threatened or endangered, their populations have declined in some areas due to human activity, including fishing gear entanglements, pollution, and noise pollution from boats and other human activities.
However, harbor porpoises are difficult to study and monitor due to their elusive nature, so their exact population numbers are not well known. Research efforts are ongoing to better understand their behavior, population dynamics, and conservation needs.
Harbor porpoises may be small, but they are an important part of Alaska's marine ecosystem. They play a vital role in the food chain as both predator and prey, and their presence is an indicator of a healthy marine environment. It's important to protect these shy and elusive animals so that they can continue to thrive in Alaska's coastal waters.