09.09.2016 – Where live the wild dolphins?

During an observation of a big school of Atlantic spotted dolphins today, the question came up: “where do the wild dolphins live”?? Well, there is not a simple answer, because there are many things not yet investigated and fully understood. However of some dolphin species like the bottlenose dolphins we know, that there could exist somewhat as a home range, at least a temporarily one. So for example, the scientists of the Madeira Whalemuseum (Project-Study 2013) assume, that about 125 individuals of Bottlenose dolphins stay for a longer time in the waters around Madeira. The so called “residents”. But a majority of this species is rather passing by, travelling in a range between Madeira, Acores, Canary Islands and Mainland Portugal. They are called the “transients”. A dolphin can easy travel for more than 100 km per day. Looking for food, mating partner, protection from predators and other reasons. Some cetacean species kind of “live” at the high seas, other prefer coastal waters. The Ocean is THEIR home and we are now and then guests  out there.

by Astrid Haas

Todays sightings:

Ribeira Brava:
10.00: Common Dolphins and Bottlenose Dolphins

15.00: Common Dolphins and Bottlenose Dolphins

Stenella:
09.00: Atlantic Spotted Dolphins (Snorkeltrip) and Bottlenose Dolphins
12.00: Atlantic Spotted Dolphins, Common Dolphins, Pilotwhales and Bottlenose Dolphins

15.30: Atlantic Spotted Dolphins, Pilotwhales and Bottlenose Dolphins

09.09.2016