support a future long term photo-identification project. The second aim was to collect further biopsy samples to investigate anthropogenic contaminants in Queensland’s coastal dolphins.
The Capricorn Cetacean Research Team has just returned from an amazing 5 day trip to Repulse Bay and the Whitsundays. This trip had two primary aims. The first aim was to collect further information on the presence of the Australian humpback and snubfin dolphins in the region. This will | During the surveys the Capricorn Cetaceans Research Team stayed at the Cascade Condominium within the temporarily closed but nevertheless beautiful Laguna Quay Resort. We would like to immensely thank Jenny for the hospitality. See the attached pictures of this amazing location rich of breathtaking sceneries and wildlife. |
Repulse Bay may have repulsed Captain James Cook back in 1770 but the dolphins appear to have a completely different opinion. Although this region is particularly windy, once on the water the field site lived up to our expectations. During only one day of survey we recorded 4 groups of snubfin dolphins with a total of 36 different individuals. | These data corroborate the results from our previous expeditions confirming Repulse Bay as one of the few known core habitats for snubfin dolphins along the Queensland coast. The presence of the jellyfish joyride in large numbers may indicate excess nutrients from fertilisers and sewage a problem that may requires further investigation |
During the same survey we also observed 5 groups of humpback dolphins with a total of 31 individuals. Despite the proximity of humpback and snubfin dolphins no direct aggressive interaction was recorded, suggesting that Repulse Bay may provide a great enough food source to sustain such large numbers of dolphins in a relatively small area.
In comparison, sightings were lower in the north section of the Whitsundays with only 2 groups of humpback dolphins, with a total of 12 individuals, including a new born. We also had one group of 9 socialising snubfin dolphins. Within this group some individuals were observed mating on several occasions. This group was later joined by 3 probable male humpback dolphins.
In comparison, sightings were lower in the north section of the Whitsundays with only 2 groups of humpback dolphins, with a total of 12 individuals, including a new born. We also had one group of 9 socialising snubfin dolphins. Within this group some individuals were observed mating on several occasions. This group was later joined by 3 probable male humpback dolphins.
During this encounter we observed Humpback dolphins actively attempting to interact with the snubfin dolphins. Throughout the entire interaction the snubfin dolphins maintained a tight group formation with only one large individual seen occasionally leaving the group to charge the humpback dolphins. However, the interaction between the two species was not aggressive, but rather just a bit frenzied. | |
Body to body contact between the two species was observed on several occasions, but we were unable to determine whether this contact resulted in a sexual interaction.
More dedicated surveys are needed in this region…..who is going to be the lucky student?...
More information on available Honours, Master and PhD projects will be posted on the website and on MARMAM List in the near future
More information on available Honours, Master and PhD projects will be posted on the website and on MARMAM List in the near future