The Northern Right Whale Dolphin is the only dolphin in the North Pacific without a dorsal fin, giving it a sleek, spindle-like profile that is unmistakable at sea. It forms large, fast-moving herds of thousands in cold Pacific waters and is the cetacean most commonly seen in mass aggregations off the California coast during winter. Its slender finless back allows it to reach very high burst speeds.
Best time to see a Northern Right Whale Dolphin
The best time to see a Northern Right Whale Dolphin is February–June, when about 60% of U.S. sightings happen, based on 120 research-grade iNaturalist observations.
Not certain it is a Northern Right Whale Dolphin? What animal is this? walks through what to check first and the lookalikes that catch people out.
Recent Northern Right Whale Dolphin sightings near you
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