Stray individuals of this aquatic tribe pay us a visit now and then. They are common in Cromarty Firth.
Delphinus phocæna [Porpoise or Sea Hog].
This is another watery visitant, much more frequently seen than the seal.
Delphinus delphis [Striped Porpoise or Dolphin].
A specimen of this beautiful porpoise was taken here in 1853.
Delphinus tursio [Bottle-nosed Porpoise].
This species is said to have been taken here, though there are some doubts as to the fact.
Delphinus deductor [Pilot Whale].
Several of these have from time to time been met with. There are other species of whales which have been captured here. One, reported to have been a monster for size, is said to have been found amongst the rocks, so far back as about the beginning of last century, betwixt the Boyne and the point known as the King’s Head, but of what species is not accurately known. It is stated in the “Statistical Account of the Parish of Rathven,” which extends about ten miles along the coast west of Cullen, that the porpoise, the grampus, and the spermaceti whale, are frequently seen along the shore.