Approach a Dolphin

THE MANNERS FOR TO

APPROACH A DOLPHIN

dolfin.gif (12126 octets)

What fascinates us at these animals, it is doubtless the fact that their curiosity to the man seems as inexhaustible as for our attraction for them. Impossible to resist to the temptation to put itself in the water when a dolphin appears near a boat or near a beach. But our pleasure does not have to encroach on the respect which one owes to the animal.

In front of a bather, a dolphin could be interested (unless the boat holds attention quite!) and will observe this unusual aquatic companion. He will turn around the rower in the biggest enjoyment of his spectator. But things will badly turn if the person wants at all costs to get him.

Any wild animal (what are all the cetaceans) needs to maintain a certain distance of security among him and an unknown. If one crosses this imaginary line, the cetacean can take this attempt to approach for an aggression. In most of cases, it will always see to it to go away to remain out of reach. If the rower persists, it will run away for check. Cases of violent reactions were sometimes recorded (knocks of tails or bites) in regions of the world where meetings man cetacean are more frequent than on our coasts.

Lesson to be held is simply not to lose sight that, when one has the chance to meet these animals, it is not evident that two sorts get. Consequently, to adopt a moderate behavior is the best means not to disrupt the animal. An confrontation of about ten minutes is rather long to live an exceptional moment, but without obliging the animal or his group to move to find its tranquillity. If the boat which approached is a motorboat, it is better to reduce or even to cut engines. And even though temptation is big, it is formally disadvised to invite the other boats or rowers to join you to take advantage of the occasion. Cetaceans will run off this time without hesitance in front of the invader, and they will be maybe dislodged from their zone of rest for day.

Copyright - manon.org - 02/01/2000 - - Mise à jour le dimanche 21 janvier 2001