Sunday was day one of Bimini Undersea’s first “dolphin week” of 2011. The mix of week-long and single-day passengers was absolutely wonderful – thank you for your conversation and enthusiasm! Upon entering the dolphin grounds, everyone donned their snorkel gear and had a quick swim. It was a good thing we practiced early because very soon after the dolphins appeared! The dolphins were quite scattered and we saw a mix of mating, feeding and playing throughout the afternoon. There were young dolphins, old dolphins and lots in between. The calves were particularly excited – with pink bellies to prove it! Over the course of the day we saw Tina (#14), Lumpy (#17), Split Jaw (#22), Lil’ Jess (#35), Swoosh (#36), Trudy (#57), Billy (#64), Speedy (#78), Tilly (#87) and un-named #24, 40 and 43. Lumpy (#17) is pictured here; the water was so calm at one point, we were able to take these types of pictures from the surface!
The photo-ID highlight of the day is that, unfortunately, Swoosh has a new injury. She is now missing nearly half of her right pectoral fin. She seems to be healing quite well and I am thrilled to report that her male calf is still with her – and he’s gotten quite big! Our fingers are crossed that he might develop a few spots this summer so he can be given his ID number!
More dolphin trips all week, so stay tuned!
Until then,
Kel