A wonderful case of survival …..

First observed on a marine tour on KI Marine Adventures www.kimarineadventures.com.au in February 2018 on the pristine North Coast of Kangaroo Island, South Australia in the North Coast Mission Blue Hope Spot www.mission-blue.org ,   Bottlenose dolphin Mandela has survived what appears to be appalling predation, presumably a shark attack.

Often observed on surveys since that first sighting, with other “regular” dolphins, and in the close company of a juvenile (Mr Wishing) she appears to be doing as well as possible and taking full advantage of these shallow, protected waters  – critical habitat for a large number of dolphins and a range of other species.

Easily recognised by all Citizen Scientists on board regular surveys, it is always a joy to see her, over the years.

To our great delight Mrs Mandela was observed at Dashwood Bay with a brand new calf in January 2021 which we called Scooter, due to the high level of activity! Fortunately female and calf are both still doing well and observed regularly on surveys and marine tours.  

The challenging mystery remains, unsolved to date despite our best efforts……what actually happened and what was her identity before the attack ?

Is she a known female in our region over all these years or did she more recently choose these protected waters for sanctuary?

We may never know….

Long may Mrs Mandela and her progeny remain safe, survive and thrive.  

#bottlenosedolphins #citizenscience #conservation #protection #missionblue #northcoast #hopespot