07.12.2016 – Passing knowledge to the young ones

Bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops truncatus) are one of the species of dolphins that we regularly see during the year. This species widely spread from tropical to temperate regions, are capable to adapt to different feeding situations. Due to this adaptability they may explore and pass this knowledge to their young ones when exploring new food sources, this is why we often see them together with Pilot whales (Globicephala_macrorhynchus) early in the morning, like this morning trip with the Ribeira Brava. They most likely take advantage in hunting night prey, we also have witnessed them hunting swarms of pelagic fish or even playing with coastal fishes in their mouth. Unfortunately by talking to local fishermen and direct observation we have also witnessed opportunistic behaviors by some groups, catching fish on long liners from the “Espada fishing boats”. This knowledge and behaviors the adults then pass to their young ones, and are practical examples of their intelligence. It is up to us to better find strategies of dealing with this conflict between us humans and nature, to better cohabit in the future.

by Daniel Jardim

Todays sightings:

Ribeira Brava

10.00: Bottlenose dolphins, Pilot whales