Another day, another rockpool safari! Once again interns guided participants across the rocks to see what wonderous creatures we could find.
The usual suspects were out in full force such as Common prawns, Shannys, and Common shore crabs. After searching under the various kelp species we were also able to find some more Beadlet anemones, Common and Flat Periwinkles and some Top Shells. Some of our participants came prepared with nets and were able to catch us plenty creatures to observe up close, but don’t worry, we put all of them back safely. This was a key lesson for today, as much as we encourage everyone to get up close and personal (as long as it’s safe) making sure nature is treated with respect is an essential part of our education. We must be careful not to take any living creature away from its natural environment so empty those buckets before you leave the beach!
As well as the regulars we found a few new species to add to our list: Brown prawns, Spring tails and Honeycomb Worms. Another appearance from the beautiful Snakelocks anemone was a welcome addition to our list.
We even had a cheeky appearance from a passing dolphin, who looked to be taking a quick nap. After a surfacing a few times, the angular fin gave away his identity… Dumbledore is once again back in the area.
It was great to have a recognisable dolphin so close to the shore during our rock pool adventure, but it was even better to have a special guest in our education hub today… one of our Flint adoptees. This dedicated Sea Watch supporter had driven 5 hours with her parents to venture out into Cardigan Bay with Dolphin Spotting Boat Trips – the New Quay dolphin boat trip company who partner with us at Sea Watch Foundation and kindly offer discounted dolphin trips to whoever adopts one of our dolphins. While they did not see Flint, they were lucky enough to meet Ghost, a female bottlenose dolphin whose juvenile daughter Summer, is just starting to assert some independence.
Visitors to the Dolphin Hub also witnessed a fantastic series of aerial behaviours just off New Quay pier, with the full white of the dolphin’s belly on clear display as it splashed down repeatedly onto its back. What a day!
Tomorrow we will be starting our upcycling of beach waste project to make a dolphin model out of the rope we removed from Dolau Beach. Anyone in New Quay, please visit us at the Dolphin Hub to the side of Rock Street Car Park for a dolphin chat, arts and crafts or to join in with our creative efforts.
Our weekend bake sale is also fast approaching, promising delicious goodies baked with love by talented Sea Watch interns. Treat yourselves and help us conserve British dolphins all at once!
Jordan W. & Fran F.
Sea Watch Interns
