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Harbour Porpoise

marine-life

Harbour Porpoise on the Moors

Best timeCalm seas improve chances of spotting them.
Best monthsApr–Oct

The encounter

A small shy marine mammal occasionally seen offshore, showing a small dark dorsal fin.

Quick ID — at a glance

Marine life

Best time of day

Calm mornings

Best months

Jan
Feb
Mar
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Apr
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May
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Jun
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Jul
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Aug
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Sep
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Oct
Nov
Dec

Calm seas improve chances of spotting them.

Best time to see them

When to look for Harbour Porpoise

Calm seas improve chances of spotting them.

Apr, May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct

Jan
Feb
Mar
✓
Apr
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May
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Jun
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Jul
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Aug
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Sep
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Oct
Nov
Dec

Best time of day: Calm mornings

Through the seasons

Spring

Active Apr, May

Mar · Apr · May

Summer

Peak season

Jun · Jul · Aug

Autumn

Active Sep, Oct

Sep · Oct · Nov

Winter

Not typically present

Dec · Jan · Feb

Community sightings

Have you spotted one?

Seen one of these on Dartmoor, Exmoor or Bodmin Moor?
Tell the 3moors community where and when you saw it.

Recent sightings

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Printable field notes

A reference sheet for this species — identification, best months, habitat and spotting tips.

Further reading

Authoritative resources

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