Finless Porpoise Sightings Surge at Toba Port, Bringing Joy to Ferry Passengers

A photograph captured from the Tobamaru ferry in Toba, Mie Prefecture, showcases a finless porpoise. The image was taken on January 22nd.

The population of wild finless porpoises visiting Toba Port has seemingly increased this year, bringing joy to both a ferry operator and passengers eager to photograph the marine mammals.

Isewan Ferry, which promotes finless porpoise viewing on its cruises, reports that the porpoises typically appear in the port annually from January to April. This year, sightings began on January 17th. On March 3rd, passengers on the ferry observed two of the creatures shortly after departure.

The ferry company has also captured images of the porpoises from the second floor of the ferry terminal this year. A company official noted the unusual frequency of the sightings.

Research conducted by Toba Aquarium in 2015 revealed that up to 20 finless porpoises can be seen each year between Toba Port and Sakatejima island, a distance of 600 meters.

Ikuo Wakabayashi, head of the aquarium's research department, explained that the porpoises are known to search for food near cliffs and river mouths in the area. He suggested that this year's increased presence might be due to environmental shifts and climate change. Further observation of the porpoises and their habitat is planned.