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A unique phenomenon was recorded off the coast of Central California – a pod of over 1500 gray dolphins (Grampus griseus), which is well above the typical size of their groups.
The sighting occurred on January 24th during a gray whale-watching excursion (Eschrichtius robustus), when a tourist boat was suddenly surrounded by numerous dolphins. According to marine biologist Colleen Talty, the animals actively interacted with the vessel, jumping out of the water, and some used the waves from the boat to propel themselves forward. The group consisted of both adults and juveniles, and thanks to the drone, it was possible to capture unique footage of this phenomenon.
These cetaceans typically form pods of 10 to 30 individuals, but this large group is likely a temporary merger of several smaller pods. The main reason for their formation, Tutley said, may have been migration in search of food, particularly squid and other cephalopods. While such large gatherings of gray dolphins have occurred before, they remain a rare and impressive sight.
This observation once again demonstrates the complex social behavior of gray dolphins and highlights the importance of further studying their migratory and feeding habits.
A group of over 1500 gray dolphins was filmed off the coast of California (video) appeared first on Curiosity.
