Dolphins! Marine Big 5 Daily Blog
Written by January 17 2021
Today we were heading straight towards Danger Point and out into the deeper water where we have been lucky to find a Bryde’s whale after a little search. Geyser Rock, was empty once again, with most Cape Fur seals probably out at sea searching from some food. However, this allowed us to see all the Cape Fur seal pups gathering close to the water. At Dyer Island we managed to spot some African penguins as well as a couple of other bird species that live on the island, such cormorants and terns. On our way back to Kleinbaai we were cruising along the coast and were extremely lucky to have come across a pod of Bottlenose dolphins. They were traveling alongside us and leaping out of the water and while busy observing them we spotted a Common dolphin traveling with them. What a great trip, we could have not asked for any better.
What species did we see today?
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.
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 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.
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.
Common Dolphin Common Dolphin
With an 'hourgalss' patch on either side and aerial activity the common dolphin is an agile and majestic species, that may easily reach a speed of 40km/h.
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.
