Dolphins in False Bay

Yesterday was a peach of a day in Cape Town – there was no wind, temperature was just right and the sea was perfectly calm. We were treated to a school of dolphins playing happily in Glencairn Bay, Simon's Town. Easy viewing and a good distraction from the office! How lucky we are to be able to watch dolphins playing from our office!

Whilst I was dreaming of being out in False Bay with the dolphins, the dive boys from Pisces Divers next door to us were out in False Bay and supplied us with this photograph of the dolphins. Thanks to Jacques de Vos who took the shot! I’m not sure from the photo which species of dolphins these ones were but common dolphin species in the region include bottlenose dolphins and dusky dolphins. It is not uncommon to see these playful creatures if you are out on a boat trip in False Bay, which you can book through Cape Point Route.

Dolphins are marine mammals and are closely related to whales. Dolphins are among the most intelligent animals and their friendly nature and playful attitude have made them popular in human culture. Dolphins are social creatures and can live in pods ranging from a dozen individuals to thousands! Their main source of food is fish and squid and dolphins will typically “herd” a school of fish into a group (known as a bait ball), then take turns plowing through the the ball of fish and feed on the stunned fish! One of the most incredible traits of dolphins is their vocalization – whistles, clicks and burst- pulsating sounds. Fascinating and beautiful if you have the luck to hear them communicating. Dolphins have very few natural enemies – only the larger species of shark like the great white shark prey on dolphins.

Did You Know? How did False Bay get its’ name?

False Bay was given its name by pioneering navigators who mistook the vast natural bay for Table Bay when seeking to replenish their supplies. In reality though, False Bay is the largest true bay along the South African coast and is considered to be one of the great bays of the world.

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