Harbor porpoise behavior when approached by a kayak?

• A. Aggressive display and approach the kayak
• B. Shy, surface briefly
• C. Swim directly under the kayak
• D. Ignore the kayak completely

Answer: (B)

Harbor porpoises are cautious around kayaks. When approached, they typically surface briefly and then dive away, doing a quick check of the boat before moving off. This shy, fleeting behavior reflects their tendency to avoid close interactions with boats rather than confront them. For paddlers, the best approach is to give them plenty of space, slow down, and avoid chasing or making abrupt moves, letting the porpoises decide when to surface and continue on. Aggressive displays or lingering directly under the kayak aren’t how these animals usually respond, and they don’t typically ignore you completely, but they’ll often just surface briefly and depart.