Marine Big 5 Daily Blog 03 April
Written by April 3 2024
Whale Watching near Cape Town, South Africa Welcome to Gansbaai, home of the Marine Big 5.
Trip Summary 03 April 2024:
Another day, another adventure out at sea! As usual, leaving Kleinbaai Harbour behind us guests and crew alike were excited about what we might encounter out there! Our journey today started along the coast towards Danger Point and we have been lucky to encounter some bottlenose dolphins close to shore. They were not moving much and were probably busy catching some fish in the kelp forest. Shortly after leaving the dolphins, we spotted some penguins at sea and various seabirds before we reached the shark cage diving boats. Out in the deep, we saw more birds but unfortunately, it has been quiet regarding marine mammals. On the way back we visited the Cape fur seals at their colony and passed Dyer Island.
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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.
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.
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 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 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.
