19.04.2024 – Surprise 3

Rain in the air, but the sea still smooth, so we headed out. A school of Bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops truncatus) appeared calm. Sometimes there has to be time to relax. On the way back we were surprised to see False killer whales (Pseudorca crassidens)! A subgroup was eating a tuna. What an exuberant activity. An encounter with these marine mammals happens once a year, if we are lucky. These agile animals are not shy of contact and there is often very close encounter. This was also the case today.

False killer whales are extremely skilful hunters. They often hunt in groups of up to 30 individuals. They often use a hunting strategy called “wave hunting”. They work together to create waves that scare birds or fish out of the water. This startled prey is then caught by them. They strike quickly to secure their meal. This co-operative hunt requires skill and teamwork. This makes it clear that they are extremely intelligent animals with a high level of social intelligence.

After some intense rain, it cleared up again, the sea had calmed down and we were able to start our second tour, which was also very enjoyable. Short-finned pilot whales (Globicephala macrorhynchus) and Bottlenose dolphins travelled through the sea and delighted our guests.

Today’s headline has a special reason. To find out more, please read the blog from Monday and Tuesday.

By Fatima Kutzschbach

Sightings of the day

Ribeira Brava

09:30 Bottlenose dolphins, False killer whales

13:30 Bottlenose dolphins, Pilot whales

Stenella

09:30 Bottlenose dolphins, False killer whales, Pilot whales

13:30 Bottlenose dolphins, False killer whales, Pilot whales