![porpoise vs dolphin porpoise vs dolphin](https://img-aws.ehowcdn.com/750x428p/photos.demandstudios.com/getty/article/104/72/200351939-001_XS.jpg)
River otters are much more common, and are often spotted in the Inner Harbour and foraging along the shorelines of Vancouver Island. But thanks to breeding programs and conservations efforts, we occasionally spot one of these rare and beautiful creatures. By the early 1900s, less than 2000 sea otters remained worldwide.
![porpoise vs dolphin porpoise vs dolphin](https://www.earthtouchnews.com/media/1950525/orca_leap_2018-01-08.jpg)
Sea otters were once hunted to near extinction for their exceptionally dense fur. Sea otters are also much larger than river otters and have webbed feet, not swift little paws. A sea otter’s tail is short and flattened, while a river otter’s tail is long and pointed. Physically, the easiest difference to spot between the two is their tail. They make their burrows near the water’s edge and are often spotted on shore, as well as in rivers, streams, and the ocean. River otters, on the other hand, are equally at home in the water and on land. Just like their name suggests, sea otters are found only in the ocean and are rarely seen on land.
![porpoise vs dolphin porpoise vs dolphin](https://i.pinimg.com/736x/93/c5/74/93c57454d4719b3b7662ba09d5aad6f4.jpg)
Here in Victoria, we often encounter Pacific white-sided dolphins, harbour porpoises, and Dall’s porpoises. As well, dolphins tend to have rounded teeth, while porpoises have sharper, spade-like teeth.įins: Dolphins have a hooked or curved dorsal fin, while porpoises have a more triangular dorsal fin, much like a shark’s.īody shape: Dolphins tend to have longer, leaner bodies than porpoises, who are often shorter and more compact What’s the difference between porpoises and dolphins?ĭolphins and porpoises have three main differences: their faces, fins and body shapes.įaces: Dolphins have longer snouts and larger mouths than porpoises. Our passionate on-board marine naturalists are always eager to tell you exactly what you’re looking at, but just in case you want a head start, or are unable to join us here in Victoria, here’s a quick rundown of a few commonly confused critters. With so many creatures to be on the lookout for, it can be difficult for passengers to know what’s what! The Salish Sea is home to the most diverse marine life in the world, thanks to its constant flow of nutrient-rich waters. While out on our whale watching trips in Victoria BC, we encounter so much more than whales.