Maximum length of 3 metres.

Black is back and belly is white.

NO dorsal fin present (only dolphin species in the North Pacific with this feature).

Body is very slender and streamlined.

Rostrum (beak) is prominent with a white tip.

Very small pectoral flippers, often held close to the body.

Extremely social, usually seen in large groups.

Often leap clear of the water (porpoising).

Found in offshore waters and along the continental shelf, most commonly offf the southern half of B.C.'s coast.

Seasonality is unclear.

May associate with other dolphin species, such as Pacific white-sided dolphins and Risso's dolphins.

At a distance it is possible to confuse these dolphins with porpoising sea lions or northern fur seals.