Visitors to the City of uMhlathuze might want to join locals and spend some time looking for endangered humpback dolphins at Alkantstrand, Richards Bay’s main beach.

These shy creatures move in and out of the harbour and head north or south – but spend a lot of time hunting in the general area at the end of the pier (northern breakwater).

While there is no guarantee of seeing them, early risers and those who have the time and patience to spend on the viewing platform could be well rewarded.

On a good day, they may be seen jumping right out the water as they chase after prey, with the juveniles especially active and boisterous.

Research on these beautiful creatures has been ongoing in Richards Bay for almost 25 years, headed by marine biologist Dr Shanan Atkins of the School of Animal, Plant and Environmental Science at the University of Witwatersrand.

In addition, a dolphin viewing webcam installed at the lifeguard house can be accessed for live streaming searches – or simply to look at general ocean activity – by logging in to www.dolphins.org.za

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