03.05.2024 – Shy and interactive

In the morning, thanks to our spotter, we saw Striped dolphins (Stenella coeruleoalba). This dolphin species is distinguished by its characteristic grey colouring and the distinctive stripes along its flanks. These fascinating sea creatures are known for their intelligence, adaptability and social complexity.

Japan, particularly the city of Taiji in Wakayama Prefecture, is known for a controversial practice associated with Striped dolphins. A brutal dolphin hunt takes place in Taiji, where dolphins are rounded up near the coast and used for various purposes. Captured dolphins are either sold for consumption or caught alive and sold to entertainment facilities such as dolphinaria. The debate around dolphin hunting in Taiji illustrates the complex challenges in dealing with the protection of marine animals and the different views on how to reconcile human activities with the welfare of animals and the preservation of the natural environment.

At midday, the Ribeira Brava went out again. Our spotter discovered Atlantic spotted dolphins (Stenella frontalis).These groups can change dynamically as they join and separate depending on food availability and other environmental factors. Within these groups, they exhibit complex social behaviour ranging from mutual grooming to joint hunting strategies. One of the most notable characteristics of Atlantic spotted dolphins is their playful nature. They are known to swim close to boats and enjoy the bow waves.This is also the case today. Although Atlantic spotted dolphins are generally not considered endangered, they are nevertheless exposed to various threats. The main threats include bycatch in fishing nets, marine pollution and disturbance from shipping traffic. Protecting their habitat and reducing human disturbance is therefore crucial to ensure their long-term survival.

Petitions to protect: https://www.lobosonda.com/marine-protection/

By Fatima Kutzschbach

Sightings of the day

Ribeira Brava

09:30 Striped dolphins

13:30 Atlantic spotted dolphins

Stenella

09:30 Striped dolphins,Flying fish

13:30 Atlantic spotted dolphins, Striped dolphins, Sperm whale

16:00 Atlantic spotted dolphins, Striped dolphins, Sperm whale