Today we learned that there are companies that take tourists on trips to swim with wild dolphins. The dolphins are not fed and are free to come and go, approaching the tourists at their own will. Researchers occasionally tag along on these expeditions and collect data on dolphin behavior and how they interact with each other as well as humans. These trips can inspire people to take action and care more for the environment, and scientists are learning more about dolphins through the data they collect.
However, much like a grizzly bear can become too dependent on humans for food, dolphins and other marine animals can become completely reliant on shrimpers, tourists and other people
that feed them. How do you feel about people approaching and interacting with
wild animals? As we are interacting with the wildlife on bimini what should
we do to keep the animals' best interests in mind?
Kyle and Chris
I think it is acceptable for people to approach wild animals, but at their own risk. And I think you guys can interact with the animals as long as you respect their space and their habitats.
Swimming and feeding wild dolphins can disturb the habitat of the dolphins. I agree that feeding for sure can be harmful to the health & welfare of these beautiful creatures. The other concern is that dolphins might become too used to human presence. It is a fine line, because the research is valuable for sure. Just be mindful of their habitat, and respect that it is their environment that you are "visiting".