04.04.2018 – Behold the Bottlenose

Energetic, charismatic, smart, sophisticated… the list goes on and on. The numerous adjectives used to describe the unique, dynamic behavior of the Bottlenose dolphin (Tursiops truncatus) allow little speculation as to why this particular species has always fascinated mankind. Since decades people have tried to decipher the language of these marine mammals and attempted to communicate with them. The Bottlenose dolphin is the third most intelligent animal according to the encephalization quotient and its curious nature has facilitated multiple reports of these animals displaying altruistic behavior towards several other mammal species, including human beings.

While the many attempts to understand them were fueled by genuine curiosity, the approach was often not in the favor of the animals wellbeing. Experiments to study the dolphins ranged from the controversial studies of the notorious Dr. John Lilly, who put himself and the animals under psychedelic drugs and lived with them, to the more humane approach of sensational neoroscientist Dr. Lori Marino, who proved their self-awareness and is spearheading a movement in animal advocacy. Their charismatic and intelligent nature is also their curse; Bottlenose dolphins are still victims of live capture and are partially even used as military animals for sentry duty, mine clearance and object recovery. In this day and age, our humanity is reflected in the humility and dignity we grant other creatures inhabiting our planet. That being said, the Bottlenose dolphin is not to be underestimated and our mistreatment of these animals boasts the opposite of any form of superiority on our part.

These dolphins were the species of the day, encountered on all 4 tours and smoothly lived up to their reputation with their usual dynamic and unpredictable behaviour.

by Paula Thake

Sightings of the day

Stenella

10:00 Bottlenose dolphins

15:00 Bottlenose dolphins

Ribeira Brava

10:00 Bottlenose dolphins

14:30 Bottlenose dolphins