21.02.2024 – Our Epic Encounter with Marine Marvels!

​​Hey ocean enthusiasts! We just had the most epic marine adventure in Madeira – a real-life Aquatic Avengers assemble! Imagine this: a day filled with flipper flutters and majestic tail waves as we spotted not one, not two, but THREE incredible species – bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops truncatus), Short-finned pilot whales (Globicephala macrorhynchus), and the ocean giants themselves, 10 sperm whales (Physeter macrocephalus)! 

Let’s kick it off with the charming bottlenose dolphins stealing the show with their playful antics. These guys are the social butterflies of the sea, often found in groups called pods. Not only are they acrobatic swimmers, but they also communicate with a series of clicks, whistles, and body movements. Talk about the sea’s own version of a dance party!

Next up, the charismatic short-finned pilot whales, cruising through the waves like true sea pilots. Did you know they’re actually a type of dolphin? Mind-blowing, right? These deep-sea divers are known for their impressive long-range vocalizations and tight-knit family groups. Family goals under the sun and over the waves!

And then, drumroll please – the colossal stars of the show, the sperm whales! These underwater leviathans boast the largest brains on the planet and are famous for their epic deep-sea dives. Ladies and gentlemen, we’re talking about a diving record of over 2 hours and depths plunging beyond 3.000 meters!

Now, who would have thought this marine paradise off Madeira would host such a grand gathering of marine royalty? It’s like attending a red-carpet event, but instead of celebrities, we’ve got fins and flukes making a splash!

As we rode the waves with these oceanic rockstars, it was a vivid reminder of the incredible biodiversity our oceans harbor. Each species bringing its unique flair to the underwater extravaganza. So next time you’re out at sea, keep those eyes peeled – you might just stumble upon your own cast of marine wonders. Happy ocean exploring!

By Camila Dávila

Sightings of the day

Stenella

09:30 Bottlenose dolphins, Short-finned pilot whales, Sperm whales

13:30 Bottlenose dolphins, Short-finned pilot whales, Sperm whales