29.07.2020 – Character spectrum

The versatility of dolphin behaviour observed during our tours burns down to the various situations we encounter them in but is also a result of the various personalities within the groups. This character spectrum was observed both below and above the waters surface today with a group of Atlantic spotted dolphins (Stenella frontalis) and was also visible in the group of Bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops truncatus) we met before our snorkelling activity this morning.

The Bottlenose dolphins were peacefully swimming eastward, with some of the more nosy individuals lifting their heads to glance at their admirers at the surface as we approached. The encounter preceded a wonderful snorkelling tour with spotted dolphins, where our guests managed to enjoy the various vocalisations and social behaviour of the animals below the surface. While all our guests all behaved in a uniformly calm manner, the animals reaction in the water varied from timid, careful approaches to fearless, curious glides alongside our snorkelers. The juveniles tend to be the first to leap towards our boats as we enter the sighting area and their inquisitive attitude often prompts the rest of the pod to follow suit. Sometimes it just takes the curiosity of a few to inspire the rest to take a look! Observing this wide array of reactions in the animals simply underlines how intelligent and sophisticated they are and makes these encounters so much more special.

By Paula Thake

Sightings of the day

09:30 Atlantic spotted dolphins (snorkeling), Bottlenose dolphins

15:00 Atlantic spotted dolphins