Dolphins! Marine Big 5 Daily Blog
Written by December 8 2020
Due to some strong winds over the last few days we were unable to head out but luckily the winds calmed down and we could launch at 11:30 for today’s tour. Shortly after departing the harbour here in Kleinbaai we spotted some Indian Ocean humpback dolphins, what an exciting start to our trip. The sighting was great, with the dolphins coming up close to our vessel Dream Catcher. After some great looks we were heading along the coast towards the shallows and stopped for a couple of moments and were lucky to see Bronze Whaler sharks around the boat. We continued eastwards towards Pearly Beach and then covered some deeper water in search for marine wildlife. We entered the greater Dyer Island area and first stopped at the Cape Fur seal colony. Our last stop of todays tour was in a small bay at Dyer Island where we were pointed out some African penguins as well as the African penguin housing project from the Dyer Island Conservation Trust.
What species did we see today?
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.
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.
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 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.
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.
