pyöriäiset

Pyöriäiset is the Finnish word for porpoises. Porpoises are small toothed whales belonging to the order Cetacea, and are typically found in coastal waters. They are distinct from dolphins, though often confused due to their similar appearance. Key differences include their spade-shaped teeth (dolphins have cone-shaped teeth) and their blunt, rounded heads without a pronounced beak.

There are seven recognized species of porpoise. They are generally smaller than dolphins, with most species weighing between 50 and 150 kilograms. Their bodies are stocky, and they have a triangular dorsal fin, unlike the curved fin of many dolphin species. Porpoises are carnivores, feeding primarily on fish and squid. They are social animals, often seen in small groups.

In Finland, the most common species encountered is the harbor porpoise (Phocoena phocoena). They are relatively shy creatures and are often observed near the coast, particularly in the Baltic Sea. Due to their elusive nature and the challenges of studying marine mammals in the wild, much remains to be learned about the specific behaviors and population dynamics of pyöriäiset in Finnish waters. Conservation efforts often focus on reducing threats such as bycatch in fishing gear and habitat degradation.