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Crab Island Dolphin Tours is a Destin Boat Tour Agency
We specialize in Private Chartered Boat Tours offering 4 different kinds of tours to make your vacation in Destin, more memorable.
Crab Island Dolphin Tours allows you to customize your tour as your family needs it to be.
Dolphin Tours are our most popular tour and it also has an option of adding an extra 2 hours to allow for "playtime" on playtime at Crab Island, or a private beach.
Our Sunset Cruises, Fireworks Cruise and Customized Private Tours such as Bachlorette parties or family reunions on a secluded island accessible only by boat.
Enjoy the exclusivity of your own boat with none of the aggravation of the large crowds in Destin. We offer 4 different Tour Options.
Daylight Dolphin Tours
Sunset Tours
Fireworks Tours
Group Special Occasions Private Tours
Click HERE to Reserve your Exclusive Private Charter Tour.
Destin Boat Tour Agency
Crab Island Dolphin Tours
Our typical Dolphin cruise will start in the Destin Harbor and we will tour through the East pass, making our way to the Gulf of Mexico. Your tour guide will be our Licensed Boat Captain which will allow you and your friends to Relax as he narrates the stunning scenery of the Emerald Waters and educates your guests with witty and entertaining dolphin facts.
Private Chartered Tours operate year round from 8am until 8pm.
Crab Island Dolphin Tours is Pet friendly.
Private Tours for up to 12 guests
We offer daily cruises from 8AM- 8PM with a minimum of 2 hours. We also offer a Thursday night excursion to see the fireworks. (see below for calendar)
Featured tours are 2 hours, but if you prefer to extend your trip, then a 2 hour EXTENSION may be arranged subject to availability.
TOUR OPTIONS AVAILABLE
Private Chartered Daylight Dolphin Tour
This is a Private 2 Hour Dolphin Tour is perfect for families with young children. Having many years experience entertaining young kids, we find 2 hours is the perfect balance of sun and excitement on our brand new 26′ pontoon boats. This private narrated dolphin tour, will host your own group up to 12 people, along with the captain to allow you to sit back and relax knowing your only worry is if you can capture that perfect photo, or if your frozen margaritas will melt before you can drink them.
Relax as we tour through a good bit of water, watching for dolphins, and other marine life. The Destin Harbor and the Gulf of Mexico are home to many pods of bottlenose dolphins. These wild dolphins are naturally curious and inclined to investigate boats traveling the waters of their home. In Florida, swimming with dolphins is prohibited by law, and viewing them by boat in their natural habitat will create an amazing encounter. On this trip, you’re likely to see other marine life and shorebirds, including sea turtles, stingrays, ospreys, pelicans, cormorants, and schools of fish. See Wild Dolphins and Visit a Pristine Destin Beach Accessible Only by Boat!
2 HOUR ADD ON-Optional
Enhance your private dolphin tour with an optional 2 hour add on and build sand castles on a secluded beach, accessible only by boat, or choose to spend 2 hours playing at the World Famous Crab Island and enjoy the party scene.
This add on follows the same approximate route as the two-hour dolphin cruise.
If spending time on Crab Island is your MAIN GOAL goal, we recommend the 4 hour cruise. (2 + 2 hours)
What is Crab Island??
Crab Island in Destin, Florida is the perfect combination of sun, sand, and sparkling emerald waters! Once just a tiny island on the south side of Choctawhatchee Bay, the sandbar known as “Crab Island” is now one of the most popular things to do in Destin for boaters, paddlers, and swimmers alike! Large enough for hundreds of boats, kayaks, and waverunners to anchor down and hang out, some of the area’s top events take place at the sandbar all spring and summer long!
Experience The Best Dolphin Tour in Destin
The typical cruise starts in the Destin Harbor. We go through the East pass on our way to the emerald waters of the Gulf of Mexico and then spend the remainder of the day on Crab Island. Our tour is a minimum of 2 hours but if you prefer to extend your trip then a 4 our tour can be arranged subject to availability. Come join us and get an up close view of these majestic creatures!
Rates
Two Hour Cruise
· 1-6 Guests: $300
· 7-12 guests: $50 per additional guest
Four Hour Cruise (2 hour add onto regular dolphin tour )
· 1-6 Guests: $600
· 7-12 guests: $100 per additional guest
Please Note: 20% gratuity is automatically applied to this activity.
What to bring:
· Flip flops
· Towels
· Sunscreen
· Drinks (BYOB)
· Snacks
DON'T FORGET TO BRING ICE!!!
Recommendations:
If you would like to spend time on Crab Island we highly recommend our 4 hour tour.
Crab Island Sunset Cruise:
For an evening of relaxation, nothing beats a sunset! Join us a little later in the day to witness the phenomenal sunsets of Destin. We start at the Harbor and chase the sun to Crab Island where we watch it slowly fade into the horizon.
For an evening of relaxation, nothing beats a sunset! Join us a little later in the day to witness the phenomenal sunsets of Destin. We start at the Harbor and chase the sun to Crab Island where we watch it slowly fade into the horizon.
This is the last tour of the day and Crab Island in the evening is a magical time to be on the water. This tour departs approximately two hours prior to sunset time and is a private chartered making it perfect for special moments such as marriage proposals, or a romantic Valentine’s day. Our Private dolphin tours last approximately two hours.
This is the last tour of the day and Crab Island in the evening is a magical time to be on the water. This tour departs approximately two hours prior to sunset time and is a private chartered making it perfect for special moments such as marriage proposals, or a romantic Valentine’s day. Our Private dolphin tours last approximately two hours.
Rates
Two Hour Cruise
· 1-6 Guests: $300
· 7-12 guests: $50 per additional guest
Please Note: 20% gratuity is automatically applied to this activity.
About your cruise:
For an evening of relaxation, nothing beats a sunset! Join us a little later in the day to witness the phenomenal sunsets of Destin. We start at the Harbor and chase the sun to Crab Island where we watch it slowly fade into the horizon.
Before booking, please be aware of our cancellation policies:
· There is a strict seven (7) day cancellation policy
· The credit card on file will be billed for the full amount if cancellation occurs within seven (7) days
· Rescheduling is possible but depends fully on availability
· Inclement weather cancellation will be determined by the Captain
Crab Island Dolphin Tours Fireworks
On holiday weekends and Thursday nights beginning Memorial Day weekend through mid-August, Harborwalk Village honors the military with song, dance and beautiful fireworks. Our boat departs the harbor at 8:30 pm and the fireworks begin at 9:00 pm. The Captain will position the boat in the pass so you can enjoy the firework show. Everyone should experience seeing fireworks while you are on the water. Our fireworks cruise is extremely popular and seating is limited; advance reservations are highly recommended.
Fireworks Cruise on Destin Harbor
Starting at $300 • All ages welcome • Up to 12 People
Rates
Two Hour Cruise
· 1-6 Guests: $300
· 7-12 guests: $50 per additional guest
Where and When are the Destin Harbor Fireworks?
Every Thursday night, Starting Memorial day through Mid-August, the Destin Harbor Fireworks are set off from a barge on the water in the East Pass. This is the body of water from the East Pass from Harborwalk Village waterfront and the West Jetties beach, which is on the Okaloosa Island side of the Destin Bridge. Crowds will gather all along the waterfront and numerous restaurants, which means it is very crowded and parking is a nightmare.
When you book your Private Chartered Fireworks cruise with Crab Island Dolphin Tours, You and your friends are free from the crowds and will have front row seating of a spectacular event. There’s no need to worry about long waits in line for food orders because you may bring your own picnic basket and cocktails.
Vacations are meant for Luxury and Leisure time, so treat yourself and your family with an experience they will never forget.
Additonal Destin Fireworks Shows on Destin Harbor
Sunday of Memorial Day Weekend
July 4th
Sunday night Labor Day Weekend
Every Saturday in October
Halloween night
Following the end of Destin Christmas night time Boat Parade
New Years Eve (2 shows scheduled)
Crab Island Dolphin Tour FAQs
How many people can your boat hold?
The boat can accommodate up to 12 passengers.
How long can you rent the Pontoon boat?
Our typical tours are 2 hours long but all day rentals are available.
What kind of boat is it and what all is it equipped with?
Your vessel will be a brand new 26 foot pontoon boat. On board you will have access to bluetooth radio, cupholders, and a bimini top for shade. Basically like a floating livingroom.
What are your hours/days of operation?
We offer cruises daily from 8AM - 8PM throughout the year.
Is food and beverage provided? What will I need to bring?
Your party is welcome to bring whatever food and beverages you prefer. In terms of gear, we recommend you bring sunblock (and lots of it), as well as sunglasses, swimsuits, hats and towels.
Where do we meet you for our tour?
You can find our boat at Herron Harbor in Destin. Simply park in the big parking lot located at 314 Harbor Blvd, Destin, FL 32541 and walk down the hill and follow the red dotted line on your confirmation letter. From there you can walk down to the docks where you’ll find us waiting. We’ll return at the same spot.
What time should we meet you at the dock?
Please arrive 10-15 minutes prior to departure.
What happens if the weather doesn’t cooperate?
Weather cancellations will be determined solely by the Captain. You will be contacted in the event of inclement weather.
Do we need to tip?
Gratuity is included in the price but should we exceed your expectations, please feel free to adjust accordingly.
What is your cancellation policy?
Because we are a seasonal business, there is a strict 7 day cancellation policy in place. Your credit card on file will be billed for the full amount if you cancel within 7 days. Rescheduling is possible depending on availability.
What’s your preferred contact method?
Text messages are the BEST and QUICKEST way to get in contact with Captain Wayne… We’re usually out on the water and email and Facebook are the last thing to be checked.
BOOKINGS & CANCELLATIONS
Before booking, please be aware of our cancellation policies:
There is a seven (7) day cancellation policy
The credit card on file will be billed for the full amount if cancellation occurs within seven (7) days
Rescheduling is possible but depends fully on availability.
Inclement weather cancellation will be determined solely by the Captain.
Tours cancelled due to bad weather is refunded.
More Details about Why you Want to go to Crab Island
· Is Crab Island Family Friendly?
· Yes and No. Crab Island can get pretty rowdy later in the afternoon and it is a big party destination in the summer, so we recommend our earlier tours if you have children, or book your tour during the week.
· Where is Crab island?
· You will find Crab Island to the north of the Destin Bridge. That side of the bridge also called the Marler Bridge, is at the southern entrance of Choctawhatchee Bay.
· WHY IS CRAB ISLAND SO POPULAR?
· Crab Island has was always a popular spot for the locals and now tourists have joined the mix to create a bigger scene. It’s not unusual to see hundreds, if not close to a thousand boats at Crab Island on a Summer day with floating music venues and food & drink vendors. It really is a big fun party in the water.
· CRAB ISLAND IS OPEN YEAR ROUND
· When is the Best Time to Visit Crab Island?
· Visiting Crab Island during the week is best if you want to avoid crowds and the party scene.
· The best time to visit swim at Crab Island is between the end of March and October.
· Cooler months is a perfect time as there are more dolphins freely playing without lots of swimmers.
Why Hire a Private Captain Chartered Boat from Crab Island Dolphin Tours
· During the Summer season, it can be difficult to find a spot if you come later in the day – we recommend getting there early (8-9am).
· If you are new to boating, we recommend anchoring the boat on the outskirts of the island to prevent accidents. If the currents are strong and the wind is blowing, it can be almost impossible to nestle the boat in the middle of the island without having issues.
· Even if you arrive early, by the end of the day, your rented boat will be surrounded by hundreds of anchored boats and navigating your departure will be tricky at best.
TIPS to spot a dolphins around Destin:
— The best times of day to spot dolphins are around sunrise, mid-morning (between 10 a.m. and noon), and mid-afternoon (between 2 p.m. and sunset).
— Please do not feed or attempt to touch our friends. This is illegal, and it also poses a threat to the dolphins themselves. It’s perfectly fine to look — just don’t touch!
— If you’re manning a boat or other aquatic vessel, please be cautious of dolphins (and other sea-dwelling creatures) that might be nearby. Human carelessness in the operation of boat propellers, anchors, etc. has led to numerous injuries and/or deaths to dolphins.
Porpoises and Dolphins are Different
Porpoises, dolphins, and whales are all members of the animal classification order Cetacea. (The word Cetacea is derived from a Greek word meaning “large sea creature.”) These marine mammals share similar characteristics including their flattened tails, called flukes, and their cylinder-shaped bodies. The bottlenose dolphins common in the Gulf of Mexico are sometimes called grey porpoises. But, of course, they aren’t porpoises at all.
What’s the difference? Dolphins usually have a longer snout, or beak, and cone-shaped teeth. Porpoises have a more rounded face, and their teeth are flat. A dolphin’s body is usually more streamlined than a porpoise’s body. And, the dolphin’s fin is curved with a signature hook shape. A porpoise’s fin is just a rounded triangle. You might say that a porpoise is Richie, and a dolphin is the Fonz. Dolphins are just cooler.
Echolocation is all in a Dolphin’s Head
Most dolphins, including the bottlenose dolphin, have a slightly rounded, pronounced forehead. This part of their body is important for echolocation. Echolocation allows dolphins to use sound waves to locate items in the water. Dolphins operate this sonar system by emitting clicking sounds that travel through the water then bounce back after hitting an object. The dolphin’s large forehead and jaw capture these return sound waves and transmit them to the dolphin’s brain for analysis.
Dolphins Have Good Taste
Dolphins like to eat squid, octopus, and fish. On occasion, they may also nibble on krill or another crunchy crustacean. Dolphins often hunt in groups, called pods. They may surround a school of fish with a ring of bubbles or work as a team to herd the fish together. Dolphins have even been known to use their tails to fling fish onto the shore for easy pickings!
Dolphins Love to Have a Good Time
Bottlenose dolphins like to play and dive in the water. Often you will see a dolphin play on the surface of the water. When diving, dolphins will sometimes flip their tails—called flukes—out of the water. Dolphins like to play in the wakes created by boats and the currents created by passing whales. If you are lucky, you may even see a dolphin leap completely out of the water!
A dolphin may breach or leap out of the water for fun or while chasing fish. But if you see a dolphin leaping out of the water repeatedly and slapping the water with its tail or exhaling loudly (chuffing), it is time to leave the creature alone. These are all signs that the dolphin has had enough of your company. The wild dolphins around Destin are pretty used to us humans wandering around, but it is always good to remember—we are visiting in their home.
More Dolphin facts-
Warm Blooded
Warm-blooded means that their body is able to regulate its own temperature, so they stay warm even when the water temperatures around them are cold. Some of their native environments, such as the waters of the northern Pacific Ocean, can get very chilly. In these places, being warm-blooded is a big advantage for survival. Being warm-blooded also makes dolphins and other cetaceans less prone to infections and other health conditions that affect cold-blooded species.
Lungs, Not Gills
Another central feature of marine mammals is that they have lungs, not gills. Dolphins, like whales, need to periodically come to the surface to replenish their air supply. They have blowholes that they close while diving, and then open at the surface for air.
Marine mammals have also adapted in some special ways to thrive in an aquatic environment. For instance, dolphins exchange 80% of the air in their lungs with each breath, while humans are only capable of exchanging 17%. Marine mammals also have a greater capacity for oxygen storage in their lungs, blood, and muscles. All of this creates a more efficient use of the oxygen in their bodies and is what allows many species to dive for extended periods of time.
Live Birth
Dolphins give birth to live young and do not lay eggs. They can get pregnant on average every two to four years once they're mature, although some species can have 5-7 years between births. Dolphin calves tend to stay close to their mothers for a few years before venturing off on their own. However, some calves will stay with their mothers for a lifetime.
Nursing
Along with gestating their young, dolphins produce milk to nourish them. It may seem tricky for calves to nurse underwater, but dolphins have adapted some special physiological traits to work around this issue.
Body Hair
Did you know that dolphins start life with body hair? Newborn calves have hairs on their rostrum (their beak) that fall out soon after birth This is believed to be an evolutionary remnant from when they lived on land.
Are Dolphins Intelligent?
Dolphins are considered one of the world's most intelligent animals, and they have several cognitive abilities that set them apart. Many researchers consider intelligence to be a combination of perception, communication, and problem-solving. You can see dolphin intelligence in action in the way they communicate and use tools.
Communication is a big part of how dolphins socialize and hunt. They have the ability to echolocate with a series of clicks, allowing them to find other dolphins or similar species and prey even in the low-light conditions of the ocean. They can do more, too. Did you know that dolphin echolocation allows them to detect surgically implanted metal in swimming humans? The human body is comprised of about 75% water, and once in the water, we provide a prime structure for echolocation. This is how dolphins are able to discern that the metal is denser than human flesh, which is mostly water.
Dolphins also have a complicated method of communicating with each other. From an outside perspective, dolphins may seem to communicate much like humans. However, researchers are still investigating both how dolphins communicate and what information they are able to pass to each other.
Despite lacking hands, dolphins are adept at using tools. For instance, one of their more specialized tricks is to carry a sponge at the end of their beak, also know as a rostrum. This acts like padding, protecting them from sharp rocks as they dig through the seafloor for food.
How do Dolphins Communicate?
How do Dolphins Communicate?
One of the fascinating things about these marine mammals is their complex methods of communication. There are three main ways: whistles, echolocation, and social communication.
Dolphins communicate through more than just clicks and whistles. They can also slap the water's surface with their tail or bodies, which is officially termed breaching.
Dolphins can make squeaks, buzzes, whistles, clicks, and a wide array of other crazy noises.. These whistles can be heard by others of the species from miles away. Their whistle repertoire can change as they get older, and dolphins who bond with one another can learn each others signature whistles and often copy each other’s whistles.
Echolocation is seeing with sound, much like sonar on a submarine. The dolphin emits a sound and then listens for the echo as that sound bounces off of objects, these sound waves travel back to the dolphin. Dolphins are able to get much more information out of the sound than humans. This includes the size and shape oThere are dozens of species of dolphins and each has their own unique habitats, appearance, and behaviors. Many dolphins are grey in color, some species have various patterns of black and white, and a few are even pink.
In terms of behavior, all species of dolphins are quite gregarious. In fact, many dolphin species can form groups of over 1,000 individuals, known as super pods!
Dolphins come in all shapes and sizes, and each species has their own unique features.
Different kinds of Dolphins
The Bottlenose Dolphin
Bottlenose dolphins are by far the most popular dolphins among our Florida waters. Estimates say there are more than 7,000 of them living near-shore by the Mississippi Delta and their species continues to multiply down the gulf coast of Florida. The Bottlenose dolphin grows to between 6-12 feet long and is blue-grayish color. They can eat more that 20 pounds of fish, including pinfish, flounder, and mullet, a day!
Bottlenose dolphins are known to be some of the smartest animals on the planet. They are also extremely curious creatures and are known to approach people to investigate. They generally live in smaller groups and organize more group-like behaviors when mating and hunting. Their preferred prey includes small, schooling fishes and squids. Adult bottlenose dolphins have no real predators, and the babies are likely only rarely taken by large sharks or perhaps other predatory marine mammals.
Sadly, this species is known to be hunted for human meals and for use as fishing bait in places around the world. Luckily, in the United States and some other places, the bottlenose dolphin is given complete legal protection due their intelligence.
The Amazon River Dolphin
You may not expect to find a dolphin in freshwater areas, but this species thrives in the Amazon River. It's also called the boto or bufeo dolphin and its skin turns pink as it matures.
The Ganges River Dolphin
Here's another entry to the list of freshwater dolphins. As you'd guess from the name, this species can be found in the Ganges River in India. It has a unique habit of swimming sideways, allowing it to sidle up to food.
Commerson's Dolphin
This striking, highly social dolphin species is found off the coast of Argentina and in parts of the Indian Ocean. It's best known for a panda-like black and white color pattern.
Risso's Dolphin
Risso's dolphins love deeper waters, where they seek out a diet of squid and other deepwater fish species. However, their favorite prey fights back and older members of this species may have a mottled pattern of battle scars from squid attacks.
Killer Whales
Did you know that killer whales are members of the dolphin family? These animals, also commonly called orcas, are the world's largest dolphins. How big are they? Larger individuals can grow over 30 feet long and weigh 11 tons. They typically have a bold black and white pattern similar to Commerson's dolphin. They use some of the most sophisticated and unusual communications of all dolphin species.
Spinner Dolphins
These playful dolphins have earned their name, in part, for the high jumping spins they take out of the water. These aerial acrobatic tricks make them a favorite among dolphin-watchers. They are found throughout the world, preferring warm and shallow waters.
The Short-Finned Pilot Whale
Once you've seen one of these members of the dolphin family, you'll never forget them. The short-finned pilot whale has an unusual, squared-off head and lacks the long beak of most dolphin species. Pilot whales are very social and travel in pods of up to 50 members.
The Hourglass Dolphin
This shy, elusive dolphin species share a similar black and white color pattern to killer whales, but they are a fraction of the size. They are rarely seen by humans as hourglass dolphins are one of the few dolphin species who favors the Antarctic area.
The Striped Dolphin
Although the bottlenose is the most famous dolphin species, there is a good chance you've seen a striped dolphin in action at an aquatic center. These attractively striped animals can live in very large groups, and they perform elaborate acrobatics when they leap into the air.
Clymene Dolphin
The Clymene dolphin is a smaller dolphin that is often found in the Atlantic Ocean. However, studies show that about 100 or so of them have decided to call the Gulf of Mexico home. Clymene dolphins are about 6 feet long and weigh between 165 to 200 pounds. They have a streamlined body with a tall, curved dorsal fin located midway down their back. Clymene dolphins have a three-piece color pattern with a dark gray back, light gray sides, and a white underside. They also have distinct black lips that can look like a mustache.
Clymene dolphins are also known as “short-snouted spinner dolphins” because they often spin while jumping out of the water. They have been seen spinning up to three to four revolutions out of the water. They sometimes interact with other dolphin species like bottlenose dolphins and spinner dolphins in the Caribbean Sea.
Pantropical Spotted Dolphin
What do Pantropical Spotted dolphins look like? Well spotty of course! Adults have more spots than the young, as they grow in number as the dolphins grow older. Pantropical spotted dolphins are slender, streamlined and generally sporty-looking dolphins.
Pantropical spotted dolphins are super-fast and agile. They are known to frequently perform acrobatic splashy leaps and “side-slaps”. They are amazing wake-riders (like a surfer). However, in eastern tropical Pacific Ocean they avoid boats as they are chased down and captured by commercial tuna fishing boats.
Pantropical spotted dolphins tend to dive more deeply at night to feed. They tend to eat small schooling fish, and sometimes squid or crustaceans.
Rough Toothed Dolphin
Rough-Toothed Dolphins are named after their abnormal looking teeth (no surprise there). Rough-toothed dolphins are unusual looking dolphins as their overall appearance looks similar to that of a prehistoric dolphin. The body is black to dark grey on the back and light grey and white on the belly. The body is dotted with white, uneven splotches and white, circular scars left by cookie cutter shark bites (ouch!).
Rough-toothed dolphins do not swim as quickly as other types of dolphins. They swim at slow to moderate speeds and skim along the surface, keeping very close together in tight formation and making a distinctive splash. While you’re more likely to find these dolphins in a Florida Aquarium they have been tracked out in the deeper water of the North Gulf.
Rough-toothed dolphins are generally found in tight-knit groups of 10 to 20 with seemingly strong social structure. They are often seen socializing with other dolphins, like the bottlenose, pantropical spotted and spinner dolphins.
Who knew so many Dolphins inhabited the Gulf of Mexico? Then again, we don’t realize how big the Gulf really is. With all this dolphin talk we bet you’re ready to see some yourself! Book your Dolphin Quest tour today!
Anatomy and Appearance
Bottlenose dolphins are varying shades of grey with a lighter belly (counter-shading), which helps conceal them from predators. They have a streamlined body that allows them to swim up to 20 mph. The typical length for an adult bottlenose dolphin can range between 6 to over 12 feet and they can weigh over a 1,000 pounds.
Behavior and Diet
The bottlenose dolphin's diet varies depending on the region where they live. These skillful predators primarily eat fish, but can also hunt other marine life such as squid. Dolphins have some sophisticated ways to catch a meal. Some of their tactics include herding prey into muddy areas and even catching leaping fish out of the air. They tend to hunt in a group, which makes the foraging process very effective.
Habitat
Dolphins thrive in both tropical and cooler, more temperate waters. Humans have encountered dolphin pods both near shore and in deep offshore waters like the Indian Ocean. Some dolphin groups stay in one area for a lifetime while others migrate.
Dolphin Calves
When their calves are born they typically weigh around 30-40 pounds, compared to full-grown dolphins that can weigh over a 1,000 pounds. That's quite a difference! Bottlenose dolphins start out quite dark in color, lightening as they mature.
Threats and Challenges
Dolphins are under threat worldwide, mainly human generated threats. Two of the biggest issues are entanglement in fishing gear and nets, and pollution. Dolphins often pursue the same fish species that commercial fishing ships are hunting and may get accidentally caught in their nets. They can also get tangled in discarded ropes and gear, causing a significant amount of marine mammal deaths each year. Finally, the human-created pollution that is affecting the world's oceans is causing a wide variety of problems for dolphins, ranging from diseases to difficulty finding food.
Mating Habits
Dolphins do not mate for life. Dolphin reproduction often involves putting on displays including posturing and vocalizations to attract a mate. Dolphins gestate for 12 months and calves are typically born tail first, and they are primarily cared for by the mothers and other related and unrelated females.
Where Do Dolphins Live?
Dolphin habitats can be are found around the world, from tropical to temperate regions. Although they are warm-blooded, they tend to avoid oceans near the Arctic and Antarctic. The bottlenose dolphin, one of the most well-known species, prefers water between 50 and 90 degrees Fahrenheit. However, each species has its own preferences. depth.
Are Dolphins Endangered?
Are dolphins endangered? Yes, there are dozens of species of dolphin that are endangered and now extinct. Some of the most threatened species are the ones that come into contact with humans most frequently. This includes the Yangtze River dolphin, the Maui dolphin, the Ganges River dolphin, and the short-beaked common dolphin. Each of these species face significant challenges for their future.
The Yangtze River dolphin is not officially considered extinct, but there have been no confirmed sightings for nearly 20 years. What may have happened? This species could have been a victim of human development including:
bycatch fishing (when the dolphin is accidentally caught in a fishing net)
injuries from fishhooks and lines
boat collisions
the rising pollution levels in the river itself
The Maui dolphin, found off the coast of New Zealand, is a highly endangered species with (an estimated) less than 100 members left. The species decline is due to many issues, one of which is that they are very slow breeders. Most dolphins reproduce an average of every couple of years, but for this species, it's 6-7 years. They also face threats to their habitats and food sources.
The Ganges River dolphin is seen in India, Nepal, and Bangladesh. Because it lives in some of the most populated areas of the world, this species is hit hard by human impact. Some major threats include river pollution, lowered levels of river water, and dam building.
The short-beaked common dolphin is found in the Mediterranean in declining numbers. These colorful animals are endangered by fishing accidents and the increasing pollution and trash building up in the Mediterranean Sea.
Should You Swim with Dolphins in the Wild?
Most of the time, dolphins are not dangerous. Some are friendly and curious while others are skittish and avoid human contact. However, don't forget that dolphins are wild animals and can be unpredictable.
Are you interested in swimming with dolphins? Don't do this in the wild; appreciate them from a distance. However, if you want this experience, you can go to a marine facility and have a safe encounter there.
Some do's and don'ts of watching dolphins in the wild include:
Do not feed wild dolphins. It teaches them to be dependent on humans, can lure them into dangerous areas along the shore, and encourages bad habits.
If you see someone feeding dolphins in the wild, report them to the authorities. They may think they're helping, but they're causing more harm in the long run.
Do not touch or pet dolphins, even if they come close. Stay at a safe distance.
If you want to view dolphins from an aircraft, check with the company ahead of time to make sure they stay at least 1,000 feet above the water to avoid disorienting the animals.
Never use a drone to take picture of a dolphin from above.
Stay quiet and avoid loud noises. A startled dolphin may end up separated from their pod.
Don't throw unused bait into the water.
Discard unwanted or waste fishing lines safely. You can also fish with specially designed dissolving hooks instead of the stainless steel varieties.
· 314 Harbor Blvd, Destin, FL 32541
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