In the marine-rich waters of Moorea, a small yet vibrant member of the cetacean family plays in the waves— the Spinner dolphin. Known for their aerial prowess and playful antics, Spinner dolphins are the ocean's consummate acrobats. At a diminutive 1.6 meters, they may be the smallest dolphin species encountered in these Polynesian waters, but what they lack in size, they make up for with their spirited displays.
These dolphins are aptly named for their unique ability to spin longitudinally along their axis as they leap through the air. It's not just a single rotation they're capable of, but multiple, rapid spins within a single jump, a spectacular feat that never fails to delight onlookers. This spinning behaviour may serve various purposes, from communication to dislodging parasites, or simply as an expression of joy or playfulness.
Spinner dolphins exhibit a charming curiosity as they often accompany boats, riding the bow wave and playfully interacting with their wake. However, despite their seeming fascination with human vessels, they are notably shy creatures when it comes to close encounters with people in the water. They tend to maintain their distance, and any attempt to approach them while swimming can result in them quickly disappearing into the depths. Observing them from a respectful distance, preferably from a boat, is the best way to enjoy their company without causing them distress.
The dolphin population of Moorea
The island of Moorea is privileged to host a resident pod of around 160 Spinner dolphins that grace its waters throughout the year. These dolphins have a predictable pattern to their day: in the morning, they are often found resting and socialising in the bays and lagoons after a night of hunting. The calm, protected waters of the lagoon provide a sanctuary where they can recuperate and engage in social activities, vital for the tight-knit bonds within the pod.
Best time to see dolphins in Moorea
As dusk falls, the scene shifts; the Spinner dolphins band together to form hunting parties. They venture out to the open ocean, where they apply their echolocation skills in search of fish and crustaceans. Their diet mainly consists of small mesopelagic fish, squids, and sergestid shrimps, which they hunt using coordinated strategies that showcase their intelligence and complex social structures.
Spinner dolphins are known to have a diurnal cycle—resting during the day and feeding at night. This cycle is closely tied to the daily migration of their prey, which move closer to the surface under the cover of darkness, making them more accessible to the dolphins. The Spinner dolphins' acrobatic displays are not just confined to daylight hours; they often continue to spin and leap against the night sky, a behaviour that remains a subject of fascination and study.
How to see a dolphin
For those visiting Moorea, the opportunity to witness the Spinner dolphins in their natural habitat is an unforgettable experience. The island’s clear waters offer ideal conditions for viewing these marine mammals as they engage in their daily routines. While their playful antics near boats are a common sight, it's during the quiet moments in the bays and lagoons that one can truly appreciate the grace and social complexity of these remarkable dolphins.
For a good chance to spot a pod of delphins, keep your eyes peeled at the Taotoi pass, pictured in the article.
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