Our first session for observations and video collection went well overall, even though the underwater visibility was poor – 3 m at most and silty. Still, the dolphins greeted me and played lots with various objects including mangrove seed pods, fish, sargassum, sea grass, and of course, my fins. Gracie spent considerable time playing with a large clump of sargassum that Trixie tried, unsuccessfully, to steal a few times. Sandy has a new pet, a remora, which she won’t let anyone take away.
There was much curiosity and playful chases among the younger dolphins – Gizmo, Kami, Trixie, Sandy, and Rocky. Buzz stayed with his mom, Alita more than play with the other young dolphins.
The dives today were good – not spectacular though most of the usual fish and critter suspects were observed. And, we got wet! And, it felt good despite the rather hot water temps (Bill said this was the first time in 20+ years he dove without a wetsuit! I still wore mine during data collection!)
We look forward to a more early session tomorrow as Don and Will plan to do the first wreck dive tomorrow morning.
Until then,
Cheers
Kathleen, Bill, Don & Will – DCP’s 2024 October Ecotour Crew