08.09.2016 – Dolphins all around
September 17, 2016
10.09.2016 – Swimming with(out) additives
September 19, 2016
During an observation of a big school of Atlantic spotted dolphins today, the question came up: “where do the wild dolphins live”?? Well, there is not a simple answer, because there are many things not yet investigated and fully understood. However of some dolphin species like the bottlenose dolphins we know, that there could exist somewhat as a home range, at least a temporarily one. So for example, the scientists of the Madeira Whalemuseum (Project-Study 2013) assume, that about 125 individuals of Bottlenose dolphins stay for a longer time in the waters around Madeira. The so called “residents”. But a majority of this species is rather passing by, travelling in a range between Madeira, Acores, Canary Islands and Mainland Portugal. They are called the “transients”. A dolphin can easy travel for more than 100 km per day. Looking for food, mating partner, protection from predators and other reasons. Some cetacean species kind of “live” at the high seas, other prefer coastal waters. The Ocean is THEIR home and we are now and then guests out there.
by Astrid Haas
Todays sightings:
Ribeira Brava:
10.00: Common Dolphins and Bottlenose Dolphins
15.00: Common Dolphins and Bottlenose Dolphins
Stenella:
09.00: Atlantic Spotted Dolphins (Snorkeltrip) and Bottlenose Dolphins
12.00: Atlantic Spotted Dolphins, Common Dolphins, Pilotwhales and Bottlenose Dolphins
15.30: Atlantic Spotted Dolphins, Pilotwhales and Bottlenose Dolphins
