Amazing Dolphins! Eco tour 31st January 2020
2 Different species of dolphins and a whole lot more...
Written by Dickie Chivell, February 5 2020
Awesome trip as we saw two different type of dolphins! Cruising along the shallows looking for our little Indian ocean humpback dolphins we were surprised by a pod of bottlenose dolphins and then shortly after by the humpbacks. Its very rare to see more than one species within a span of 20 minutes. We also saw great sharks, seals and penguins. On our way home, already super happy with the sightings of the day we were surprised by a large pod of the same bottlesnose dolphins, indicating that the earlier pod was a small scouting party that broke off from the larger pod to see whats happening in the bay. Dolphins Rule!
What species did we see today?
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.
Indian Ocean Humpback Dolphin Indian Ocean Humpback Dolphin
Humpback dolphins are an endangered species, with small populations living very close to shore, typically in water less than 25m deep and an average home range of 120km. Their proximity to land makes these animals particularly vulnerable to human influence.
Cape Cormorant Cape Cormorant
One of the most famous species of Cormorant in the Western Cape, the Cape Cormorant is well known for it's beautiful turquoise eye and impressive size.
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.
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.
