18.02.2026 – Forced migrations
February 24, 2026
20.02.2026 – Beautiful visitor from the north
February 26, 2026
Nature is so full of wonderful spectacles and one of our personal favourites here in Madeira, occurs during the winter times. During this colder season, Short-beaked common dolphins (Delphinus delphis) arrive in the waters of the region to hunt Halfbeaks (Hemiramphidae), planktivorous fish that occur just below the surface. So rot catch these nimble fish the dolphins engage in highly coordinated attacks that happen in smaller hunting parties. After corralling the fish and gathering them into smaller groups by zapping them with their sonar, the dolphins dash through the school of fish in series, often leaping through the air and taking their poor prey with them. It is an amazing testament to both the intelligence and agility of these gorgeous dolphins and it is tons of fun to watch.
The offshore common dolphin sightings were also accompanied by sightings of Bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops truncatus), a species that tends to prefer the region’s coastal waters. Those sightings were also lots of fun, with many of the dolphins lifting their heads to take a cheeky peak at their admirers. We do like to say that, when it comes to the Bottlenose dolphins here, observations are a two way street. What a day!
By Paula Thake
Sightings of the day
Ribeira Brava
09:30 Short-beaked common dolphin
13:00 Bottlenose dolphin
Stenella
09:30 Short-beaked common dolphin, Bottlenose dolphin
13:30 Bottlenose dolphin
