Dall's porpoises are the fastest porpoises, reaching speeds of 55km/h. They will regularly bow-ride, and send up a 'rooster-tail' of spray when they surface.

Subspecies
Two - P.d.dalli, P.d.truei

Life span
Unknown.

Statistics
Body length: 1.7-2.2m, Weight: 135-220kg.

Physical description
Dall's porpoises are a striking species. Their bodies are black with white side patches. They have a tiny head and a prominent dorsal fin, which is pale at the upper end. Like all porpoises, they have spade-shaped teeth (as opposed to conical in dolphins).

Distribution
Dall's porpoises live in temperate regions of the North Pacific.

Diet
Dall's porpoises feed on fish, krill and squid.

Behaviour
Dall's porpoises typically live in pods of 10-20 individuals, although they can gather in thousands during migration. They are rapid swimmers and send up characteristic clouds of spray from the water surface.

Conservation status
Dall's porpoises are classified as Lower Risk by the 2000 Red List.