29.04.2022 – Dolphins

On our Ribeira Brava this morning we saw three Short-beaked common dolphins (Delphinus delphis) and a Bottlenose dolphin (Tursiops truncatus). At noon we saw a school of Atlantic spotted dolphins (Stenella frontalis).

Short-beaked common dolphins and Bottlenose dolphins, two fascinating species, are often found in the same waters. Short-beaked common dolphins are characterised by their distinctive short beak. They are known for their playful nature. They live in groups, called schools, where they communicate and hunt with each other. The bottlenose dolphin is larger in comparison and has a distinctive and robust appearance. This dolphin species is famous for its intelligence and social structure. Both species have similar feeding habits. They feed on a variety of fish and other marine life. Although they are sometimes found in the same marine areas, there is little direct interaction between these two marine mammal species.

Atlantic spotted dolphins are distinguished by their characteristic pattern, which consists of dark spots on a grey to blue-grey back. These curious little dolphins are known for their playful nature and acrobatic skills, including spectacular leaps and spins.

Observing marine mammals in the wild is an experience that offers insights into the diversity and beauty of marine life.

By Fatima Kutzschbach

Sightings of the day

Ribeira Brava

09:30 Common dolphins,Bottlenose dolphin

13:30 Atlantic spotted dolphin

Stenella

09:30 Common dolphins, Bottlenose dolphins, Blainville’s beaked whales

13:30 Atlantic spotted dolphin

16:00 Common dolphins, Bottlenose dolphins, Atlantic spotted dolphins