Marine Big 5 Daily Blog 12 April
Written by April 12 2023
Whale Watching near Cape Town, South Africa Welcome to Gansbaai, home of the Marine Big 5.
Trip Summary 12 April 2023:
Today we were incredibly lucky with our wildlife sightings! Shortly after departing Kleinbaai harbour, we came across an Indian Ocean Humpback dolphin cruising in the shallower waters. Over by our shark cage diving boat, Slashfin, we enjoyed some incredible Bronze Whaler shark action. In some deeper waters, we were fortunate enough to encounter two Bryde’s whales! We also sighted some incredible sea birds diving amongst YellowTail including; Cape Gannets, White Chinned Petrels, African Penguins, Cape Cormorants, and various Tern species. Over by Dyer Island we also spotted some of the endangered Africa Penguins on land. In Shark Alley, the 60,000-strong Cape fur seal colony certainly did not disappoint!
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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.
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.
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 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.
