The Puget Sound is not a typical home for oceanic dolphins like bottlenose dolphins, though rare sightings occur. However, its waters host several porpoise species, which are often confused with dolphins. This distinction is important for understanding the marine life supported by the Puget Sound ecosystem.
Cetaceans of the Puget Sound
The Puget Sound is home to a variety of marine mammals. The Harbor Porpoise (Phocoena phocoena) is a commonly sighted year-round resident, often found near coastal shallow waters. These smallest cetaceans in the Salish Sea have seen their population rebound significantly since the 1970s, a success for local conservation efforts.
Another porpoise species, the Dall’s Porpoise (Phocoenoides dalli), is also present, though less common than in previous decades. These robust porpoises are known for their speed, being among the fastest small cetaceans. Pacific White-Sided Dolphins (Lagenorhynchus obliquidens) are occasional visitors, typically preferring offshore waters but sometimes appearing in the Strait of Juan de Fuca or the Puget Sound. Other cetaceans, such as transient orcas (Orcinus orca), are also observed, with increasing sightings.
Distinguishing Porpoises from Dolphins
Distinguishing porpoises from dolphins involves observing physical and behavioral characteristics. One clear distinction lies in their teeth: porpoises have spade-shaped teeth, while dolphins have conical teeth effective for grasping prey. Their body shapes also differ, with porpoises being stockier and dolphins sleeker and more streamlined.
Their dorsal fins provide another visual cue. Porpoises typically have a triangular or blunt fin, whereas dolphins often display a curved or sickle-shaped fin. Facial structures also vary; porpoises usually have a shorter, rounded face without a prominent beak, unlike dolphins, which commonly feature an elongated snout or beak. Behaviorally, porpoises tend to be more reserved, traveling in smaller groups and exhibiting less acrobatic displays. Dolphins are often more social, playful, and known for behaviors like leaping out of the water and bow-riding alongside vessels.
Ecological Contributions and Responsible Observation
Porpoises and other cetaceans play an important role in the Puget Sound’s marine food web. Harbor porpoises primarily feed on small fish and cephalopods. Dall’s porpoises consume a diet of fish and squid, often foraging at night. As top predators, these animals serve as indicators of the marine environment’s overall health.
Observing marine mammals requires responsible practices to ensure their well-being. Maintain a significant distance from all marine mammals; federal guidelines recommend staying at least 50 yards from dolphins and 100 yards from whales. In Puget Sound, this distance increases to 200 yards for transient killer whales and 1000 yards for Southern Resident killer whales. Approaching too closely, disturbing, chasing, or feeding these animals is prohibited and can cause harm. Supporting local conservation and research organizations helps protect these sensitive populations and their habitats.