Seeing Sarasota’s bottlenosed dolphins is among the most cherished memories of visitors and residents alike. Whether it’s observing the shoreline swim of a small group, known as a pod, or witnessing the thrilling leaps and spins of these playful ocean performers, catching Sarasota’s bottlenosed dolphins in action is an event you won’t soon forget!
Featured in marina shows across the country, dolphins are famous for their amazing acrobatics and theatrical showmanship. Besides being trained to leap through hoops, dolphins are also employed by the military to detect undersea explosives and enemy divers!
Bottlenosed dolphins can be recognized by their long, blunt snouts and sickle-shaped dorsal fins. Sleek, torpedo-shaped bodies help propel them through the water at speeds of up to 35 miles per hour. Grey and white camouflage helps keep them at the top of the oceanic food chain.
While the Atlantic Coast is home to many dolphins, Sarasota boasts one of the densest bottlenose populations. Shallow waters and rich sea-grasses make Sarasota Bay an ideal haven, and many pods have settled here to enjoy the abundance of fish, mollusks, and crustaceans. Thanks to this thriving environment, the Sarasota Dolphin Research Program has been following dolphin pods for almost 40 years!
With so many dolphins calling Sarasota’s waters “home,” opportunities to observe them are abundant. Although it may be tempting to interact with dolphins in their natural habitat, it is important to remember that they are still wild animals and can be dangerous to humans, especially if their young are nearby. Dolphin-watching cruises offer fun and informative opportunities to hang out with these entertainers of the sea - comfortably and safely!
Should you be lucky enough to see Sarasota’s beloved bottlenose dolphins, whether from shore or while on an exciting cruise, you’ll certainly come away with the memory of a lifetime! |
