5/5! Marine Big 5 Daily Blog 7 May
Written by May 7 2023
Whale Watching near Cape Town, South Africa Welcome to Gansbaai, home of the Marine Big 5.
Trip Summary 07 May 2023:
Both our trips today witnessed some amazing Bryde’s whale action and these individuals were extremely calm around the boat! By our shark cage diving vessel, Slashfin, the Bronze Whaler sharks were active, as well as a Short-Tail stingray on trip two. The Cape Fur seals were as playful as ever in the world-famous Shark Alley and we even spotted some of the endangered African Penguins on Dyer Island. Our first trip of the day was also lucky enough to see a beautiful pod of Bottlenose dolphins whom we sent some time with!
Trip 2.
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What species did we see today?
Bronze Whaler Shark Bronze Whaler Shark
The Bronze whaler (also known as Copper sharks) here in Kleinbaai are very curious and interactive. These sharks eat mostly fish, with sardines being one of their favourites.
Brydes Whale Brydes Whale
The mysterious Bryde's whales visit the Dyer Island area throughout the year, with most sightings occurring during summer into winter.
Bottlenose Dolphin Bottlenose Dolphin
At present there are two recognized species of bottlenose dolphin, and in some cases, both species can be found in the same area. The two species are the common bottlenose dolphin (Tursiops truncatus), and the Indo-Pacific bottlenose dolphin (T. aduncus). In addition, there is a great deal of variation in colouration, diet and behaviour. The difference between the common bottlenose and Indo-Pacific bottlenose dolphin are subtle, but the common bottlenose dolphin generally larger and more robust with a slight darker colouration.
Cape fur seal Cape fur seal
With a local population of 60,000, it's no wonder our guests capture so many photographs of these wonderfully playful marine mammals.
African Penguin African Penguin
As one of only 17 penguin species left in the world (and the only one on the african continent), the african penguin often breed in offshore colonies, such as Dyer Island.
Cape Gannet Cape Gannet
Well documented for their aireal displays, experiences with with the famous Cape Gannet are always breath taking, and hold a special place in every photographers portfolio.
Crowned Cormorant Crowned Cormorant
Recognisable by their iconic red eyes and glossy coat, these beautiful birds are often spotted feeding on the wide variety of local fish-life close to the Dyer Island shoreline.
