Robin W. Baird and Pam J. Stacey
Canadian Field-Naturalist 105:243-250. 1991.
Abstract
The northern right whale dolphin, Lissodelphis borealis, is one of the most abundant oceanic dolphins in its range in the North Pacific, but little is known about its biology or distribution. The biology and management of this species are summarized with special reference to its status in Canadian waters. Seventeen occurrences of the northern right whale dolphin from within the Canadian 320 km (200 mile) extended economic zone are presented; only one occurrence has been previously published. Seven of these records are of animals killed in a Canadian experimental flying squid (Ommastrephes bartrami) driftnet fishery in 1986 and 1987, which has since been discontinued. Lack of comprehensive recording of sightings, strandings and incidental catches render the exact status of this species in Canadian waters unclear. Based on the best available information, the northern right whale dolphin is rare in Canadian waters, where it is in the outermost limits of its normal distribution.