The Harbour porpoise is the smallest animal we normally see on our whale watching tours. They are usually seen in family groups of 3-10, but hundreds can be seen together. Usually we find harbour porpoises close to shore but because they are so small we need good weather conditions to spot them. But once we do, you'll find out how cute they are, and it is just amazing when a big group of Harbour porpoises surrounds the boat, in every direction you look.

Length: 1,5-2 meters

Weight:  55-70 kilos

Life expectancy: about 15 years

Status: still exists in large numbers

• The smallest whale found around Iceland
• Found mainly in cool, coastal waters throughout the Northern Hemisphere
• Has a characteristic triangular dorsal fin
• Surfaces like a slow turning wheel about eight times a minute
• Usually seen in family groups of 3-10, but hundreds can be seen together 
• Spends less time socialising than other small whales due to the need to feed more often
• Eats fish and crustaceans, using echolocation to find the prey
• The blow is rarely seen but can be heard, the whale´s nickname is ´puffing pig´
• Threatened by humans because it can easily get caught in fishing nets

Hnísa, schweinswal, marsouin, tumlare, pyöriainen, focena