Family Delphinidae (Dolphins)

IDENTIFICATION

The Pacific White-sided Dolphin (also known as the Pacific Striped Dolphin and the Hookfinned Dolphin) can grow up to 2.3 metres long and weigh at least 136 kg. Its large sickle-shaped dorsal fin is pale grey on the hind margin and black in front. It has a black back, striking light-grey sides and a white belly. The black back is interrupted on each side by a white stripe that begins just over the head, continues along the back to the area of the dorsal fin and then widens and curves down towards the anus. When these animals ride bow waves, their white stripes are clearly visible and allow for easy identification.

MEALS, MANNERS AND MIGRATION
Pacific White-sided Dolphins hunt primarily at night, preying on squid, herring, sardines and anchovies. Calves are born in summer or early fall after a 10- to12-month gestation period. These dolphins may form huge pods of more than a thousand, but they usually travel in groups of about 115. They are gregarious creatures, often seen associating with other marine mammals. People have often seen this dolphin leaping clear of the water and, sometimes, somersaulting.

STATUS
Little is known about the population of the Pacific White-sided Dolphin in British Columbia waters, although it is commonly seen. The COSEWIC status designation for this species is not at risk, based on frequent sightings of large pods. Since the Pacific White-sided Dolphin is in the central part of its range off the coast of British Columbia, more research needs to be done to determine its population status.

DISTRIBUTION
Restricted to the temperate waters of the North Pacific Ocean. In British Columbia, this species ranges from Juan de Fuca Strait to the Queen Charlotte Islands. Around Victoria, they are commonly sighted in summer and fall in Juan de Fuca Strait. They have also been seen in Haro Strait and the Strait of Georgia.