Dolphins at play in winter
Dolphins emit a number of clicks and squeaks, which serve as communication.
There is a constant presence of dolphins and whales in the warm waters of the South Coast.
These gorgeous mammals can be spotted from decks located in Ramsgate, Margate and Umtentweni.
This allows for a perfect opportunity to pack a picnic basket and watch the sun set over our glorious coast.
The warm Indian Ocean caresses the beaches of the South Coast, creating a familiar paradise for swimmers, surfers, and rock anglers.
However, just beyond the waves, lies a whole new world of adventure for nature-loving visitors.
A growing interest in eco-tourism worldwide has prompted local entrepreneurs to set up dolphin and whale watching trips up and down the coastal waters, launching from Shelly Beach and Umkomaas.
Bottlenose dolphins are common residents of the South Coast, with pods of 30 to 50 dolphins patrolling up and down just beyond the breakers.
These dolphins can be seen clearly from the beach on most days, sometimes surfing the waves and jumping clear from the water.
Dolphins emit a number of clicks and squeaks, which serve as communication.
Scientists are currently investigating the level of communication of these animals to see if it amounts up to a language.
Throughout the year there are about 900 bottlenose dolphins that reside along the KZN coast.
With the onset of the winter months and the annual sardine run, about 3000 bottlenose dolphins will extend their migratory range into southern KZN.
This will make the lower South Coast the Mecca for viewing dolphins with some pods exceeding 1000 dolphins at any given time passing close to the shore.
You may also be fortunate enough to view the common dolphins that come inshore to feed on the sardines.
These dolphins are viewed early in the mornings as they prefer the deeper waters, with numbers in excess of 15000 to 30000.
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