The Northern Right-whale Dolphin is primarily found in deep waters of the North Pacific Ocean, between about 30°N and 50°N, where it is widespread and abundant (
Hammond et al. 2008). However, Hammond et al. (2008) indicate that "they are sometimes seen nearshore, especially where deep water approaches the coast (such as underwater canyons), and apparently prefer "coastal-type" waters in the California Current system (see Jefferson et al. 1994)". The range of this species is nearly identical to that of the
Pacific White-sided Dolphin (Lagenorhynchus obliquidens) (Hammond et al. 2008).
This is a small slender species (max. 3 m) that is mostly black in colour with white on the belly and tip of the beak; it is social and often travels in groups with other marine mammals (Wild Whales 2012). Wikipedia (2012) provides the following description: "The species has a streamlined body with a sloping forehead, are more slender than other delphinids, and lack any fin or ridge on their smoothly curving backs.[3][4] The beak is short and well defined, a straight mouthline, and an irregular white patch on chin. The flippers are small, curved, narrow and pointed, the body is mostly black while the underside is partly white or lighter in colour. The tail flukes are triangular and, like the flippers, pointed. Adults weigh between 60–100 kg.[3] They have 74 to 108 thin and sharp teeth, not externally visible." The most distinctive feature of this species is its lack of a dorsal fin (Wild Whales 2012).
Norther Right-whale Dolphins feed on squid and other cephalopods and on various species of fish (Hammond et al. 2008).
This species is fast and can reach speeds of up to 30–40 km per hour (Wikipedia 2012).
