Everybody loves dolphins, and on this day each year (14 April), efforts are made to create more awareness about these beautiful creatures, and what the threats are in terms of their sustainability and protection.

Richards Bay is blessed to enjoy the presence of the highly endangered southern Indian Ocean humpback dolphin (Sousa plumbea), and these shy creatures are often viewed from the dolphin platform at Alkantstrand.

Individuals are recognised by their unique dorsal fin shapes and markings. They are photographed for identification purposes, and each new arrival is warmly welcomed and added to the data base.

Accidental bycatch in the shark nets remains a concern, but thanks to local pressure by researchers and conservationists, some nets have been replaced by drumlines (baited hooks), which are less lethal.

Boat traffic and noise, ocean pollution and illegal gill netting depleting their food sources, add to environmental concerns.

In keeping with the day, local dolphin ambassador Dave Savides, who has been active in humpback dolphin research as a citizen scientist for over two decades, penned these thought-provoking words:

What do dolphins know?

Do our dolphins know they are being watched?

Are they aware of the oohs and aahs of their human observers as they tumble and cascade during their socialising rituals and frenzied hunting forays?

Do the dolphin mothers hear the giggles of onlookers as they watch their new babies perform belly-flops trying to break through the surface of the water?

Do G’nfin, Magic, Venus and the rest of the home pod know we have named them, and that we document their every move; and that they are part of an international study?

It’s said dolphins are the most intelligent of all species. So maybe they do. After all, what do we know?

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