There were surfing Short-finned pilot whales (Globicephala macrorhynchus) today on our wavey morning trip. One of the Pilot whales had defecated. Some people might turn up their noses, but the truth is that whale faeces are vital for the marine ecosystem and for us too. The faeces are extremely rich in nutrients. A great resource for zooplankton and therefore enriching for the food chain. But phytoplankton also thrive as a result, which is good news for us. 70% of oxygen is produced by phytoplankton. It is therefore also in our best interest to protect marine mammals. In the spirit of compassion, it goes without saying that we should be the guardians of these animals out of love for nature and these wonderful creatures.
We also encountered these wonderful marine mammals on the midday tour. However, the sea was a little calmer. On the way back, we saw a few Bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops truncatus).
Click here for the petitions to protect Pilot whales, Bottlenose dolphins and other marine mammals: https://www.lobosonda.com/marine-protection/
by Fatima Kutzschbach
Sightings of the day
Ribeira Brava
09:30 Short-finned pilot whales
13:30 Short-finned pilot whales
Stenella
09:30 Short-finned pilot whales
13:30 Short-finned pilot whales, Bottlenose dolphins