Research Field Notes: No. 2

5/28/2014 Dolphin Boat Survey

Today’s survey extended from the Jupiter Inlet (N 260 56.624' W 800 03.805') down to the Lake Worth Inlet [aka the Palm Beach Inlet] (N 260 46.300' W 800 03.500').

Water conditions: Southeast WINDS 10-17 mph. SEAS 2 TO 3 FEET +

Duration: 8:15am-1:30pm

Research Organization: Taras Oceanographic Foundation

Recorded dolphin photo ID:

Today’s trip had three encounters. The first was with two males. They were foraging and bottom feeding. The second group “acted like” moms that were “napping” on the surface with several juvenile calves close by engaging in “play time”. We witnessed one tail slap behavior and one jump out of the water as the animal was traveling.  The third group were heading south in the same direction as our survey and traveled parallel to the boat for a good distance. They initially engaged in a short bow ride. This group produced the best photo ID images. It is hard to estimate the exact number of animals encountered. This will be determined once the images have been examined.

                                          Taras Oceanographic Foundation NMFS (GA LOC) No. 13386

Other: An offering to King Neptune

Being out on the water doing field research is always enjoyable. However, some days the ocean and weather conditions make it harder than others. Students should be aware that conditions are not always perfect. This trip was no different.  One of our team members was feeling a little queasy, so she made an offering to King Neptune and all his fish! She recovered quickly though and rejoined the team. The winds and sea heights began to pick up for the second part of the survey.

Extras:

Why do dolphins jump out of the water when travelling? Go here to find out.