15.08.2019 – Siesta

The large availability of squid in the archipelago’s waters is attracting a variety of cetaceans and the abundance of prey almost seems like it’s too much to handle! Both our boats enjoyed a sighting this morning with a large group of Atlantic spotted dolphins (Stenella frontalis) that were desirably feeding on a school of Horse mackerel (Trachurus trachurus). Our crew on the zodiac even saw the dolphins drift vertically near the surface surrounded by their prey, seeming almost hypnotised by all the action. Our boats then stumbled upon a small, clustered group of Short-finned pilot whales (Globicephala macrorhynchus) logging at the surface after a long night of squid-feeding. 

These pilot whales were later encountered resting at the surface near a group of Bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops truncatus) who had probably joined these gentle cetaceans during their nocturnal hunting spree. Our spotter then caught sight of a breaching Sperm whale (Physeter macrocephalus) and we arrived just in time to witness the animals gather at the surface to rest after their deep dives. During such gatherings, the animals often socialise and barrel roll at the surface as they rub their giant bodies against each other, an impeccable scene which is always a pleasure to observe. Out of nowhere, a group of Pilot whales materialised approached from the east and gently rested near the rafting Sperm whales. Must’ve been a long night for all these cetaceans and it granted us a beautiful day filled with calm, delightful sightings!

By Paula Thake

Sightings of the day

Ribeira Brava

09:00 Atlantic spotted dolphins, Short-finned pilot whales

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

Stenella

09:00 Atlantic spotted dolphins, Short-finned pilot whales

12:00 Bottlenose dolphins, Short-finned pilot whales, Sperm whales