Dolphins of Greece 15 (3-10 September)

7 wonderful days in Vonitsa. Watching wild dolphins was my long-time dream and finally it came true. I hope future generations can enjoy such experience. I want to study more about dolphins, animals, the whole environment, and act to achieve sustainable earth. Joan, I could hardly understand your jokes, but I liked to see everyone laughing at them. You are so good at creating a cheerful mood. It was a pleasure to be with you. Thank you very much for everything! I will never forget that boat! Joe, I was so lucky to meet you at the bus terminal by accident. Thanks a lot for your kindness. Good luck in your future!

Emi (Japan)

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We had an absolutely, amazingly, wonderful time! The project is extremely well organized from the second we arrived to the moment we had to leave. We quickly learned that we were not here to just quietly watch dolphins. We were here to be a part of a real field research project! While our hearts broke to hear about the decline of dolphins around Kalamos, we treasured the precious moments with the dolphins of the Amvrakikos Gulf. Watching a juvenile dolphin jump in the air and groups of dolphins glide through the calm water was pure joy. Listening to the dolphins exhale, especially the “asthmatic” one, truly touched our souls. Of course, the last day was the most fantastic; as we were surrounded by dolphins, Joan switched off the engine and exclaimed “THIS is Amvrakikos!” and time stopped and for that moment we felt his passion for the dolphins and this beautiful place, which will stay in our hearts forever. We know the dolphins' future is in great jeopardy, as is their ocean home, and we promise to do what we can and to tell anyone that will listen about our experience. Because no matter how dismal the situation maybe, we can never stop being their voices, so that in the future, we can still loudly yell “dolphins, one o’clock, 50 meters!”. Joan and Joe, thank you so very much for creating such a wonderful experience. We hope that we can stay in touch and our paths will cross again.

Daniel and Alexandra (USA)

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This has been an extremely privileged opportunity. To be so close to the dolphins, sea turtles and to understand the consequences of human activity in the resources that Mother Nature provides. Mostly I could only watch silently in awe or go “wow, look at those amazing creatures” instead of pointing out “dolphins sighted, 6 o’clock, 50 metres” which must have exasperated Joan countless times. The facts of the dwindling marine life are quite saddening to know, and this expedition serves as a reminder that we are all so small, and connected like parts of a chain of something larger. Be it cetaceans, land animals or other resources, we must all do our bit to love our environment a little more… so that we build a world based on love and respect for all that nature provides us with. Thank you for sharing so much knowledge Joan and Joe, it has been an experience which all of us will carry and cherish for a long time.

Min (Singapore)

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I had a great time here in Vonitsa. I love this quaint, Mediterranean town and the valuable research that Tethys does. I chose this research expedition to explore a new country and to gain practical experience in marine biology – mission accomplished! I am also grateful for the “league of nations” environment that this project fosters. It was a pleasure to learn about Spanish, British, Japanese, and Singaporean culture. This will be the first of many Earthwatch research expeditions for me – perhaps I’ll even join “Dolphins of Greece” again! Best wishes in all your future endeavours.

Adria (USA)

Slide Show: Gulf of Corinth

View some of the best photos taken during the expedition in the Gulf of Corinth, Greece!

View Slide Show

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All photos © Tethys Research Institute

Cetacean Sanctuary Research 16 (30 August - 05 September)

Where to start? This week has been like very few others. It was placed under the sign of uniqueness. The clement weather allowed us to spend all five days out at sea, which we decided to spend mostly in the eastern part of our study area. A decision that proved to be fruitful. Over the past couple of months we were starting to think we wouldn’t be able to sight some of the less regular species that inhabit the Ligurian Sea. Indeed, this week the eastern part of the Pelagos Sanctuary was the scene of four very special and rare encounters:. Even though it may be hard for participants to grasp how unique these events were, we believe the team’s reaction and hardly contained excitement was proof enough. Our second day out at sea was marked by a two-hour-long sighting of a group of fifteen very active Risso’s dolphins, who delighted us by exhibiting their curious behaviours incuding “spy hopping”, “head standing”, “tail-slapping” and even “bow-riding”. In fact, they were sometimes a little too active for the researcher in charge of photo-identification. Later that day, we could not believe our ears when our captain Paolo shouted “ZIFIO!!”. When we came out to see, it was hard to believe how close the Cuvier’s beaked whale was to the boat. She was a female, based on the lack of two big teeth at the front of the rostrum. Following our eastern route, much to our surprise and delight, we had the opportunity to sight a group of four female Cuvier’s beaked whales in the slope area, and managed to stay with them for two hours, as they unusually didn’t stay underwater for more than 10-15 min. The day ended taking refuge next to the turtle-shaped island of Gallinara for one night. Two days later again Risso’s dolphin joined us, but only a three-individual group, calm and relaxed. What an excitement when we discovered that one of the three was in the same group sighted before. To top it all, we also sighted a fin whale, a distant sperm whale and numerous striped dolphins. It was just one of those weeks…

Viridiana, Francesca, Nina, Morgana and Cristina  (CSR Team members)

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As sad as it sounds, it took an experience like this for me to realize the beauty and magnificence of cetaceans and the enormous effect that humans have on their future well-being. I will remain ever vigilant and ever true regarding personal decisions I make from this moment on. Thank you Tethys crew for providing me with this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity – you’ve been extremely welcoming and patient, even if we have trouble reporting what types of boats are in the vicinity =). I won’t let you down!

Khoa (USA)

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A cette heure, les mots manquent pour décrire cette semaine magique durant laquelle nous nous sommes émerveillés, avons découvert, appris. Merci à toute l’équipe de nous avoir fait partager votre quotidien et de nous avoir permis d’apporter notre minime contribution. En échange, nous rentrons un peu plus ouverts, un peu plus conscients, bien plus riches qu’au départ. Nous essaierons de ne pas tout à fait reprendre nos vies là ou nous les avions laissées, de conserver ce petit supplément d’âme, de faire passer le message. 
Ancora grazie mille per questi 5 giorni. 

Julie & Fabien  (Switzerland)

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We have tried, again and again, to find the Loch Ness monster in the Ligurian sea, but in vain. However, many other cetaceans came to join us, too many to remember all of them. If you don’t believe us, we strongly advise you to join the trip and spend some time contributing to Tethys’ efforts. Thus aiming to enhance our environmental awareness and reduce our polluting consumerism and acts. Please carry on like this, it was a real pleasure to meet you and to discover your work and enthusiasm. One more question: why is the sea so salty? 

Nicolas (France)

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What an adventure! We saw so many wonderful things that I don’t really know where to begin… AMAZING is the 1st word that comes to mind. I’m not sure I realise how lucky we were this week. You have told us that the cetaceans we saw were rare… we just enjoyed seeing them. I hope they will still be there in a few decades time for us to see again. That would mean that humans are capable of changing!  Thank you for your explanations, your kindness, your enthusiasm, the way you have to share your knowledge in simple words… I feel like I know the Mediterranean Sea better now, thanks to you.

Noémie (France)

Ionian Dolphins 14 (29 August - 4 September)

When our work of dolphin researchers and conservationists seems ultimately irrelevant and frustrating, when harsh criticism and internal fights strike, and everybody tells you—you have not done a proper job, you should have done more, you suck. Then, reading the comments left by project participants in our field diary brings a blow of fresh air. Looking at their photo albums is enlivening, even if I have not spent a single day with the dolphins this year. This suggests, perhaps, that I should keep doing work from behind the scenes to the best of my possibilities, beyond my own shortcomings and biases. I should let more of these fine people participate in one of our dolphin projects and be amazed by marine wildlife. Participants in this team left the field station and each other with tears on their face. I was hiding in my cave, but could share a part of the empathy. And I, too, could share the enthusiasm when the crew came back from the field every day. Once again I could see dolphins, seabirds and waves through the eyes of my youth.

Giovanni Bearzi
Project manager and science coordinator, Coastal Dolphins


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Well, that was pretty good, wasn’t it? What began as a simple excersise in getting a bit of extra field experience for my ecology degree quickly became one of the best overall experiences of my turbulent life to date. From the people that I have met here to the superb education that I have been given on cetacean behaviour and the state of the seas and fisheries, there has not been a moment that I haven’t thought to myself “Damn it Nathan, this is awesome”. I have felt Galaxidi to truly be my home for the past two weeks and am happily embracing the Greek way of life – whenever I am sitting on my backside doing very little and somebody has the audacity to ask me to do something, my response shall forever be “I am busy”. And hopefully I’ve picked up some Italian cooking ideas along the way… My thanks go to the Tethys team – Silvia and Phillipa have been excellent teachers, guides and friends and they have been able to answer most of my largely irrelevant questions, while only persecuting me when it was absolutely necessary for comic effect. A special mention must of course be given to bottlenose dolphin 'Nemo' for giving us something to watch on bad weather days and to my fellow volunteers who have been superb companions with whom I would love to travel and work again. I have every intention on keeping in touch with Tethys and supporting their projects in whatever way I can and I wish you all the very best of luck in the future. Until we meet again,

Nathan ‘Adrian’, UK

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This has been one of the best experiences of my life. The town of Galaxidi is incredible, and the relaxed atmosphere is perfect for all of the hard working researchers and volunteers. The first day in the field was exhilarating - from the first meeting of Nemo, to the amazing swordfish who decided to breach in front of the boat. Nemo continued to impress the rest of the week, and the last day was in fact my favourite – the striped dolphins and the several common dolphins amongst the group did not disappoint (and of course Nathan scaring us out of our wits). Because of their passion for the sea and for cetaceans, Silvia and Phillipa are two of the most beautiful, intelligent women that I have ever met. The researchers at Tethys are doing an amazing job on their projects. All of them, and the four other incredible volunteers have given me hope that there are still people who care enough about the seas to protect them. Thank you all for such a great experience, and I look forward to seeing you (or your work) in the future.

Katie, Canada

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I was terrified about coming to Greece on my own, but I can assure anybody that is thinking about doing this that there is absolutely nothing to worry about. The Tethys team are amazing, and with their colourful sense of humour and friendly, laid back attitude they made everybody feel at home straight away. The trips out in the boat were amazing, and we were very lucky with the variety of wildlife we saw. It is rewarding to feel that working with Tethys and learning about the research might contribute to marine conservation. I am definitely going to do my best to spread the word at home. The other volunteers and Silvia and Phillipa were all great to work and live with. I hope we all stay in touch.

Laura, England

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When I was coming here, most of my thoughts about it were worrying if I would be able to get to the place all right, but I really needn’t have worried. Everyone was willing to help me and entertained my obvious questions. The first time out on the boat was absolutely amazing, seeing the dolphins’ complete freedom in the sea, unburdoned by the the things that plague humans. Words aren’t really enough to convey my experiences here, and nothing I say could really do it justice. I will always be grateful for this experience, the wisdom I’ve picked up along the way and the wonderful people I have met. Every day has been a wonderful experience and a gift, and trying to explain things to my friends and family at home just won’t be enough to articulate just how amazing this experience has been. I’ve made firm friends, and enjoyed learning about the regional differences in our speech. I’m sorry that my accent has been difficult to understand at times, but I’m glad that I provided amusement with phrases that are perfectly normal to me. I’m not sure what else I can really say, words aren’t enough. I came here a jaded court reporter, coming from a stressful job and this has definitely changed me for the better. Philippa and Silvia haven’t seen the last of me!

Suzy, Ireland

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Il Dolphin Field Course è stata un’esperienza anticipata da intense aspettative: la curiosità verso il posto in cui avrei trascorso questa settimana e nei confronti dei ricercatori e dei ragazzi che avrei conosciuto, che mi avrebbero coinvolto nelle ricerche a cui sogno di potermi dedicare in futuro e, infine, ovviamente l’entusiasmo al pensiero che avrei incontrato i cetacei nel loro ambiente naturale e li avrei conosciuti meglio! Nessuna di queste aspettative è stata delusa: ho provato un grande stupore al mio arrivo a Galaxidi, un posto così caratteristicamente greco, dove la vita scorre ancora ritmata dall’andare e venire delle barche dei pescatori e dove la luce rosata del tramonto illumina la costa montuosa sfiorata dalle sfumature blu del mare. Ho conosciuto ricercatori veramente coinvolgenti e disponibili, grazie ai quali ho potuto vedere oltre e comprendere i problemi che mettono a repentaglio questo meraviglioso angolo del pianeta, così come molti altri e ho avuto l’occasione di parlare e divertirmi con ragazzi provenienti da paesi differenti! E… l’avvistamento di un branco di stenelle striate con delfini comuni nel golfo e quello di un tursiope (il ‘nostro’ Nemo) che banchettava agli allevamenti di pesce lungo la costa sono stati momenti che non posso descrivere a parole: è troppo emozionante stare sul gommone, tutti a scrutare le onde col fiato sospeso finché un urlo di gioia sovrasta il soffio del vento e… li vedi lì! E’ stato sempre necessario un attimo per riprendere la concentrazione e prendere i dati e le foto, che ogni pomeriggio abbiamo poi trasferito sul computer analizzandole e discutendo tematiche relative alla ricerca e alla conservazione dei cetacei. Credo che quello che ci è stato offerto sia l’approccio ideale perché non trascura né l’aspetto dell’emozione umana né l’aspetto della precisione scientifica e penso siano entrambi necessari, ovviamente perché senza i dati non si potrebbe condurre una ricerca, ma anche perché senza l’emozione non ci si potrebbe sentire coinvolti in essa e il coinvolgimento è il primo passo verso la sensibilizzazione di cui l’uomo ha così bisogno nei confronti dei problemi ecologici che affliggono il nostro meraviglioso ma fragile pianeta. Silvia, Philippa, Katie, Laura, Suzy, Nathan… thank you so much for everything!!!

Beatrice, Italy

The emergence of compassion

The following article has just been published online:

Perception of a cetacean mass stranding in Italy: the emergence of compassion

Giovanni Bearzi, Nino Pierantonio, Silvia Bonizzoni, Giuseppe Notarbartolo di Sciara, Massimo Demma. 2010.

Aquatic Conservation: Marine and Freshwater Ecosystems. DOI: 10.1002/aqc.1135


ABSTRACT

1. The view that whales are malicious monsters has been pervasive throughout history. Conversely, the idea that these animals experience suffering has emerged only recently. One way of investigating perceptual, as well as behavioural, shifts is assessing general public reactions to mortality events involving wild, rare and charismatic animals.

2. Here, the responses of 118 individuals to questions regarding the mass stranding of seven sperm whales (Physeter macrocephalus) along the Adriatic Sea coast of Italy in December 2009 are reported through interviews taken at the stranding site and in the direct proximity of the dead animals.

3. When asked why the whales were stranded, 44.1% of the respondents suggested anthropogenic causes and 21.2% non-anthropogenic. The remaining 34.7% mentioned a generic ‘disorientation’ or stated they did not know. When asked how they felt about the whales, 68.6% expressed feelings of compassion or care towards the animals. Clearly non-compassionate attitudes accounted for only 4.1% of the sample. Finally, 21.2% expressed feelings that were ambiguous in terms of being suggestive of compassionate or non-compassionate attitudes, including 11.9% amazement, 4.2% deprecation and 5.1% powerlessness.

4. These results are in stark contrast with information obtained from accounts of similar events that have occurred in historical times, up until the first half of the 20th century. For centuries, responses to cetacean live strandings—typically including killing and harming of the animals—were either utilitarian or characterized by feelings including fear and a desire to ‘subjugate the beast’, with no apparent concern for their suffering and death.

5. It is concluded that attitudes towards whales—today strikingly revolving around sadness, compassion and a sense of loss—have changed dramatically over time, with a steep turnaround in the 1970/1980s. Full appreciation of the ongoing evolution in public perception can channel marine conservation efforts and assist in the design of response strategies to marine mammal strandings.

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A pdf copy can be obtained from the journal's web site:

http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/aqc.1135/abstract

or from the first author:

giovanni.bearzi(at)gmail.com

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Photo by Silvia Bonizzoni: A sperm whale dying on the beach of Foce Varano, Italy

A Sword-Wielding Soldier of Conservation

Early this morning, the research boat exits the small, sheltered harbour of Galaxidi and dares to get into the jaws of a roaring, exceedingly wavy Gulf of Corinth.

In these circumstances, one generally holds out little hope of spotting anything of zoological interest. The greatest a researcher could hope for would be an overly-energetic tuna, tired of being systematically out-witted by a sardine, thus making a dramatic break for it into the external environment in the hope of finally breaking the sardine’s spirit.

Or even, in these kind of bone-breaking, face-showering waters, the sight of an elegant Cotylorhiza jellyfish would give a group something to coo at for a minute or two. So this is the mind-frame we set out with. Unbeknownst to us, however, the marine life inhabiting the Bay of Galaxidi had other plans.

Passing through the nearby fish farm, the research boat chugged over to the fish nets for a cursory scan. A dark triangular movement and soft puff of air suddenly yet silently announced the presence of an old friend – Nemo, the lone ranger bottlenose dolphin we’ve come to know and appreciate. On a straight beeline for the fish farm, Nemo was lumbering his way towards an all-you-can-eat buffet of wild fish, currently swarming around the nets to claim their thieved share of pellets cast out for the farmed sea bream.

On a surprising side note, calmly bobbing away in between Nemo and the boat, appeared a sea turtle, indignantly ignoring our paparazzi-esque array of cameras. However, these sightings were but a precursor to the Star Act of the day’s marine extravaganza.

Upon returning from the fish farm, almost subconsciously tracking the usual route back into the harbour after a long hot day out on the sea, a volunteer’s voice suddenly chipped into the concentrated silence, with child-like excitement claiming to have seen a dorsal fin. With one look at each other, Silvia Bonizzoni and I telepathically communicated the same thought. “Waves”, we said with our eyes, and calmly averted our view back to the harbour. A brisk backwards glance, however, immediately brought my disbelieving tail back between my legs.

At first sight, only a dark, small dorsal fin was visible to the naked eye. After a tense breath-held minute, the unmistakable elongated bill of a swordfish breached the surface, and a full bodied leap took it clear of the water, pointing towards the skies in dramatic splendour. In truly spectacular fashion, the mighty 3m long aquatic soldier thrust its entire body into the air, four, five, six times, displaying in clear communication its right to the freedom of the waters.

Gasps of awe and excitement reaped through the air each time the great sword protruded defiantly above the surface, the body slamming back down onto the water like a clap of thunder. Displaying this gasp-inducing activity almost directly in front of Galaxidi harbour, the animal seemed to be openly stating its refusal to be domineered by the anthropogeneous world.

Xiphias gladius, a name conjuring images of the gladiatorial might of Greek and Roman legend - this species has become an icon of the seas. A representative of the oceanic army defending itself against the blood-thirsty predator that humanity has sadly become. Swordfish are fished extensively in the Gulf of Corinth, and can be seen proudly displayed on every menu in the surrounding towns and villages. Having rarely seen evidence of their continued presence in this area, the Tethys research team were ecstatic to receive such glorious confirmation of their prevalence.

Simply to have seen a fin, or a blurry shape beneath the surface, would have sufficed for me to claim excitement at having seen a swordfish, and feel the warmth-of-heart that only conservationists can understand at confirming the continued presence of a threatened species. This, however, was akin to witnessing a glorious battle cry. A soldier of conservation, jousting the air in defiance of its kind.

Philippa Dell (Research assistant, Hellenic Dolphins)

Cetacean Sanctuary Research 15 (23-29 August)

During this past wonderful week, Pelagos was home to an incredible global crew, with lovely people coming from all walks of life and different horizons. To add to the cosmopolitism of the boat, we welcomed on board our new German research assistant Nina Kelch, who came back after being a promising participant last year. Part of the magic and excitement about working in the wild is that we can never be really sure how each week is going to pan out. Last week did not let us down. Striped dolphins exhibited acrobatic skills on numerous occasions along with two of their calves, and we witnessed the beauty of a mother-calf pair of fin whales swimming obliviously in the pelagic area. Additionally, we sighted three sperm whales even though they were more elusive than last week. Aside from all the cetacean species, we encountered other aquatic animals: several jellyfish species, two sea turtles (one of them having a quiet nap at the surface) and two sunfish feasting on Velella velella. We will keep our fingers crossed for next week to be as fulfilling (the weather forecast is looking very promising!).

Viridiana, Francesca and Nina (CSR team members)

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It was one of those weeks where the planets aligned – the weather was beautiful, the seas were mostly kind, the team of people on the boat were a great lot and the cetaceans showed themselves often enough to earn their appearance fees. Thank you indeed to the professionalism of the crew – Francesca, Viridiana, Nina and Captain Paolo – I have learnt a lot about these wonderful creatures who inhabit our oceans and remind us of both the antiquity and fragility of Planet Earth. Long may she live! Research and programs such as this will be what will save her.

Dinah (Australia)

--- It wasn’t like a movie, there were no whales launching themselves onto the boat, no dolphins diving through hoops. It was much more real, respectful and impressive. So much to appreciate. The program takes participants on a journey that will help to sustain the Mediterranean Sea, the whales, the dolphins, other marine life and the participants themselves. The Tethys team are not only professional, knowledgeable, and organised, but also a joy to be around. Thank you to Francesca, Viridiana, Nina and Paolo.

Wendy (Australia)

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Ultima notte cullata dal mare nel porto di Sanremo, ripenso alle intense emozioni provate in questa indimenticabile settimana: la prima esperienza di vita in barca, gli spazi, il tempo e le emozioni condivise con quattordici persone ognuna diversa ed ognuna ormai impressa nella mia memoria, la passione, la dedicazione e la disponibilità di Francesca, Viridiana e Nina che ogni giorno con il loro lavoro cambiano un po’ il mondo, Paolo” the captain” che ci ha fatto solcare questo nostro splendido mare… e poi loro, i veri protagonisti di questa avventura, i nostri amici cetacei che nella loro magnificenza ci fanno ricordare quanto bello sia il mondo per la cui preservazione dobbiamo vivere e lottare. Grazie Tethys!

Cabiria (Italy)

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An extraordinary voyage with researchers who had a wonderful ability to wrangle 11 guests, while conducting serious and important detailed research into the habits and identities of cetaceans. They generously shared their detailed knowledge of whales and dolphins and other sea life with us. The participants were “simpatico”, the food was great and the whales cooperated by revealing themselves at regular intervals. Thank you Tethys for a wonderful experience.

Mary (Canada)

Dolphins of Greece 14 (22-29 August)

Wake up, work, get home, dinner, gym, sleep.
Wake up, work, get home, dinner, gym, sleep.
Wake up, work, get home, dinner, can’t be bothered going to the gym, sleep.
Etc etc etc.

And so the days continue, bored and totally lost of focus, excitement, dedication and purpose. In a city like London, it is so easy to get lost in the crowd, be just a nameless face. Pessimism and negativity towards humanity and their effects on the planet had set in, however truthfully, I was not doing much to help either. What I take with me, apart from all the amazing experiences mentioned above through out the years, is a sense of purpose and hope. I have seen first hand that the world could just stand a chance, because there ARE people that care out there. I had forgotten to believe this. And to meet two of these people, Joan and Andjin makes it a real and inescapable fact. How inspiring! I sincerely thank you for this. Keep up the amazing work.

Wake up, teach my class and spread the word, get home, dinner, gym, sleep.
Wake up, continue to spread the word, get home, dinner, gym, sleep.
Wake up, watch the kids spread the word, get home, dinner, still can’t be bothered going to the gym, sleep.
Etc etc etc.

Alessia (UK/Australia)

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As I sit here, Sunday morning, the morning of our departure, I try and write. I sit here drawing a blank; a quite literal lack of words. For everyone that knows me or has met me can appreciate that my silence is as rare and, more importantly, peaceful as a blue moon. The town, the people, the animals, the adventures, and the new family I have made over the past week have imprinted upon me something that I cannot express in the little time I allowed myself to process this most life changing of experiences. Hopefully, when I look back at my life in the coming few years, the gravity of my time here can be quantifiable. However, until then, my reticence will have to make due.

Cheers to the Dolphins of Greece and all of the people who live and work to preserve them. You passion is unrivalled.

Sam (USA)

Vaquita – Last Chance for the Desert Porpoise

An outstanding documentary by Chris Johnson about the critically endangered vaquita in Mexico.

Strongly recommended !

http://vaquita.tv/documentary

Ionian Dolphins 13 (22-28 August)

Thank you very much for a lovely time, I really enjoyed myself, especially seeing the dolphins. I hope all your projects continue to flourish and may well see you again in the future.

Steven, England

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Grazie per la pazienza e per il coraggio che avete nel portare avanti una strenua e infinita lotta contro coloro che non capiscono l’importanza di un ecosistema integro e perfetto. Grazie per la disponibilità e l’impegno che dimostrate per noi volontari, che possiamo essere dei veri piantagrane. Grazie per averci offerto questa possibilità che, vi assicuro, è stata fantastica. Quindi grazie davvero per tutta l’umanità che ci avete dimostrato, per la gentilezza, la preparazione e soprattutto la meravigliosa barca. Aggiungo un 'ciao mamma!' per Philippa, che si è rivelata un’ottima e paziente conversatrice e un’ottimista sorridente anche alle 6 e mezza di mattina. E ringrazio moltissimo Silvia per il tuo meraviglioso accento italiano, che mi ha permesso di capire ogni singola parola che pronunciavi, il che non è poco. Grazie perché tramite la tua straordinaria competenza e l’ardore che infondi in ogni spiegazione mi hai resa ancora più curiosa nei confronti non solo dei delfini, ma dell’intero ecosistema marino. Abbracci strettissimi a tutto lo staff.

Marta, Italy

New Tethys web site !

The web site of Tethys has been entirely re-designed and the new version was posted online today.

Please take the time to visit at least some of the about 200 pages:

http://www.tethys.org

Cetacean Sanctuary Research 14 (16-22 August)

The beginning of this week reminded us of last year’s sperm whale sighting frenzy, as we were able to detect and localise their clicks as soon as we put our hydrophone into the water. There were always several individuals clicking simultaneously from different directions, and it wasn’t easy to understand what was going on. However, they were quite dispersed so we sighted them one at a time. Later, during a very wet navigation, we unexpectedly got a glimpse of a small pod of Risso’s dolphins associated with some striped dolphins under the pounding rain! On the other hand, “Encounter jellyfish!” was a commonly heard exclamation on board this week. We witnessed the ongoing increase of these cnidarians first hand. A very kind Cotylorhiza volunteered to come onboard the Pelagos for a few minutes to exhibit its many colourful features during a marine zoology lesson in the lovely bay of Villefranche Sur Mer. Last but not least, after seven weeks of intensive hard work, our new Catalan assistant says adios to Pelagos and its crew. Thank you Maria, we wish you good luck in all your marine endeavours.

Elisa, Viridiana and Maria (CSR Team members)

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Non potevo immaginare come sarebbe potuta andare questa settimana, ma tutto è andato decisamente sopra le mie aspettative. Vivere una settimana a così stretto contatto con questo ambiente non mi capita, purtroppo, tutti i giorni. Grazie Elisa, Viridiana, Maria e Paolo per averci portato a vedere bellissimi animali e fantastici posti. Grazie per tutte le spiegazioni che ci avete dato con tanto entusiasmo, e per la pazienza usata nel seguirci. Penso che l’idea di unire persone provenienti da paesi diversi sia stata importante per permetterci di scoprire nuovi stili di vita, anche se ogni tanto il dialogo è stato un po’ difficile. Spero di poter rivivere un’occasione simile! Grazie =)

Francesca & Cristiano (Italia)

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Ammetto che all’inizio ci sia stata qualche difficoltà, ma questo è nulla in confronto a quello che questa esperienza mi ha regalato. Credo che Pelagos non sia solo una barca, ma un mezzo per provare un profondo e semplice senso di libertà. Osservare gli animali nel loro habitat naturale è stato bellissimo… mi ha fatto sentire per la prima volta parte del mondo. Quindi grazie a tutti per aver condiviso questa fantastica settimana… nel mio cuore ci sarà sempre un posticino per ognuno di voi.

Alessia (Italia)

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Dear Elisa, Viridiana, Maria and Paolo, your work is of great importance and it is good to see you are all so dedicated to it and to the participants. I hope you will continue to evolve the protection of Cetaceans. I learned more about the different species and will pass the knowledge on to my friends and family. So a lot of success and we really like you.

Germaine & Stephan (The Netherlands)

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Un grand merci à toute l’équipe du Pelagos. Ce voyage a été une fabuleuse expérience, il m’a apporté beaucoup de joie malgré la communication qui n’a pas été toujours facile. J’ai pu trouver ici tout ce que j’attendais et même un peu plus. Aucune fausse note, je conseillerai a tout le monde de se jeter à l’eau et de participer à ce merveilleux projet. Bravo à vous tous !

Alexandra (France)

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One of the best experiences of my life. Many beautiful people and animals! Thank you all: Elisa, Viridiana, Maria and all the participants.

Valentina (Italy)

Dolphins of Greece 13 (13-20 August)

The work you do is great. Thank you so much for teaching me more about dolphins than I could ever read about in a book. I going home and educating my family about how to ask questions at restaurants, and how to buy fish. I had a fantastic time, way to short though. Thank you for stopping and picking up the garbage in the cove. Every little bit helps, and just may be other people will get the message! Joan, I am going to miss your humour and your smile. Keep doing what you’re doing. People like you are what makes such a difference in the world. Keep smiling… I will be back some day, hopefully next year. I hope to see you again. Andjin, thank you for the Dutch humour and patience with all of us! Don’t ever give up. You can reach your dream!

Julia (USA)

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What should I say… time with you and the beautiful dolphins was just too short! I learned, enjoyed and laughed a lot! Since I had absolutely no expectations and simply wanted to do something meaningful during my vacation, I was overwhelmed by everything that we experienced together. The field work was only part of this journey in the cetacean world. I am so grateful that you also introduced to us many issues of the global fishing industry and… made me think… made me reflect on my consumption behaviour… convinced me that I can also react to all the problems in the marine ecosystems worldwide. THANK YOU! I am so happy to have met you and been part of this project! Looking forward to future meetings and to working on all ideas we had during dinners and café time! Andjin, thanks for your jokes and your patience with all of us during the cropping time!

Mariya (Bulgary)

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Thanks to you, I had a very good time in Vonitsa! Of course, it’s first time to see wild dolphins for me. So I was really excited about it. In addition, you introduced to me some issues on global fishing industry. I know we Japanese also have much to do with these problem. So when I go back to Japan, I must study and learn more about the cetacean ecosystem, the issue of fishing and, of course, the argument between Japanese government and IWC. I will be a doctor and as such my work will be saving people. But it’s the people that cause environmental problems. So I think it’s very important to have a passionate concern for both, people and environment. I want to be a doctor who can cure not only people but also the Earth! It was so great talking with you! I will miss you! Joan, when I meet you again, I will definitely be able to understand your jokes! (I must study English). I promise I will give you a ride on a yacht when you come to Japan! Please do not worry about our three kinds of Japanese alphabet. Andjin, thank you for taking care of me! I will check my quarters and remember to drink water regularly even when I go back to Japan. When you come to Japan in the future, please let me know! I will probably be around Tokyo, so I can show you around in gratitude!

Nobuyuki (Japan)

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I cannot begin to thank you for enriching my life. I was so moved by the beauty of the sea, the charming villages and the magic of the dolphins. What a gift you gave me. Your patience, teaching skills and knowledge are impeccable. The daily lectures and casual conversations, at the dinner table, truly opened my eyes to how important preserving all life is. It is so easy to believe that we, as people, are not damaging the sea because we visually can not see what goes on underneath. Your teaching methods were kind and you showed much patience in helping me understand. I can’t even imagine the self sacrifice, which comes with your kind of work, you are admirable. My wish is that more people cared liked you do. Andjin, thank you so much for your kindness and patience in assuring a successful project. You took extract time to assure I understood the logistics, and many other aspects of the project.

Lisa (USA)

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This has been perhaps one of the best animal experiences I have ever had in my life. I do not want it to be over! I have been very impressed with all you have done to organize and manage this project. Everything I have witnessed has been, in my opinion, very well documented and particularly unbiased in terms of how you gather data, the level of detail and care taken to ensure proper protocols, procedures, etc. In addition, you have both been excellent hosts and given us all good opportunities to enjoy ourselves and have some fun at your expense. The food has been delicious and healthy. I must also say that I was exceptionally impressed with how informative the information was prior to arriving in order to prepare us for a great project. Thanks for answering all my questions – there were many, no?. Finally, thanks for using your fantastic experience and talents to help our world and these wonderful creatures. This is very selfless of you both! That is a dedication that I can now appreciate much more thoughtfully and empathetically. I have great respect for both of you but particularly you, Joan, because I totally understand and appreciate your guidance to all of us. I think you might see me again! Ciao!

Lora (USA)

Third ship-struck whale reported in the Pelagos Sanctuary this summer

Today, August 19th, Tethys researchers surveying the Ligurian Sea waters 17 km off Sanremo encountered a sperm whale with serious ship-strike wounds on its back.

The researchers tracked the animal using their towed hydrophone array, until it surfaced again. The sperm whale was exhibiting unusual behaviour: these large cetaceans usually stay still at the surface while recovering from a deep dive. This particular individual, however, was swimming at a fast pace, suggesting avoidance behaviour towards boats.

The researchers managed to take a few pictures of the wound before the animal disappeared underwater, likely swimming away from the boat. It was only fair to leave the animal alone to avoid further disturbance.

This encounter further documents that ship collisions with large whales are a common occurrence within the protected waters of the Pelagos Sanctuary, and that further enforcement is needed to effectively protect these magnificent creatures.

Viridiana Jimenez and Elisa Remonato

Cetacean Sanctuary Research 13 (9-15 August)

The good weather conditions in the first part of the week allowed us to sight several pods of striped dolphins and two fin whales. We therefore decided to spend the first night out at sea, where the unexpected happened, and we heard a fin whale blow in the night, after which, many shooting stars were seen and wishes made. The next day we tracked the clicks of a sperm whale in the pelagic area and stayed with it for three dive cycles. Our already awed participants could not imagine things would get better, when, after the sperm whale’s last fluke up, it decided to impress us with a full body breach! The rest of the week was happily punctuated with striped dolphin, turtle and sunfish sightings, and swim breaks. Our last night on the boat was spent in the harbour, where we had prime seats for the 15th of August fireworks in Sanremo.

Elisa, Anna, Viridiana and Maria (CSR Team members)

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Ich hatte einen Traum… Niemals werde ich diese Eindruecke hier auf der Pelagos vergessen.
Wir sahen Finnwale, Delphine und einen springenden Pottwal. Ich hoffe, dass alle Menschen ein verantwortungsvolleres Denken bekommen um diese wundervollen Tiere zu schuetzen. Wir danken dem Team von Tethys, dass sie uns dieses einzigartige Erlebnis moeglich gemacht haben.

Jutta und Martin (Germany)

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Ever since I was a little girl I have had a passion for wildlife and always hoped to travel the world seeing animals in their natural habitats. Signing up for this trip I hoped, but did not expect, to have some close encounters with these amazing creatures, the cetaceans, in the Mediterranean Sea. I have not been disappointed! Our trip began with a wonderful fin whale sighting towards the end of our first full day at sea, but (if it is possible) this was topped the next day when we tracked a sperm whale and saw it several times. Immediately following what we thought would be its last dive before we moved on it breached spectacularly just in front of the boat. We were all awestruck – and frustrated that we had all just put our cameras away! So no photographic evidence to share, but it will be imprinted on our memories forever, as will the many encounters with large groups of striped dolphins, particularly the bow-riding. The team of researchers (Elisa, Anna, Viridiana and Maria) plus our skipper Paolo have been wonderful company and have taught us so much, and I hope to follow and support Tethys’s activities in future - particularly in terms of their raising awareness of conservation issues regarding the whales, dolphins and other inhabitants of the region.

Marian (UK)

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Dopo la bellissima esperienza dell’anno scorso Anna mi ha convinta nuovamente a partecipare al campo di ricerca… e finalmente ho visto balenottera e capodoglio (incredibile emozione!!!) oltre alle immancabili stenelle che mettono sempre allegria!!! Sono sempre più convinta sia importante conoscere e rispettare la natura e questi campi hanno aumentato la mia sensibilità verso gli animali ed il loro ambiente naturale. Un ringraziamento particolare al pesce luna che ci ha fatto divertire tanto!!! Infinite Grazie ad Anna per avermi fatto conoscere questo mondo. Grazie a Viridiana per le innumerevoli traduzioni e per i tantissimi sorrisi. Per Elisa: prometto di impegnarmi a limitare il consumo di tonno, e se necessario dolphin safe! Un saluto a Maria il cui italiano migliora giorno per giorno. Tanti baci a tutti i partecipanti, soprattutto a Claudia Patrizia ed Elena. Siete forti Mola mola!

Nadia (Italy)

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Un petit coup de nageoire pour les baleines, une grande prise de conscience pour les hommes… Ma deuxième année à bord du Pelagos et toujours autant d’émerveillement, de plaisir et surtout de belles personnes rencontrées, que ce soit les chercheurs ou les volontaires. Etant moi-même biologiste j’ai conscience des difficultés que vous pouvez rencontrer et nous voyons et recevons avec tant de plaisir votre volonté et votre passion. Un énorme merci à vous tous pour votre bonne humeur, votre gentillesse et votre professionnalisme. Et j’ai bien l’intention d’obtenir un troisième tampon sur mon diplôme. Je vous dis donc à l’année prochaine j’espère.

Laureline (France)

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Ogni avventura ti lascia sempre qualcosa e tu stesso lasci un pezzo di te. L’importante è cercare di fare le cose in maniera diversa e guardare con occhi nuovi per fare in modo che questo pazzo mondo cambi un po’, che la bellezza e l’eleganza degli animali che abbiamo incontrato possano restare per il futuro. Ho imparato cose su cui non mi ero ancora soffermata e ho cercato la “contaminazione” con tutti quelli che ho incontrato in questo “viaggio”.

Patrizia (Italy)

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Un grand merci à Elisa, Viridiana, Maria, Anna et Paolo pour nous avoir accueilli dans le monde des cétacés et fait partager leurs passions avec autant de dévouement. Rorqual commun (fin whale), cachalot (sperm whale), dauphin bleu et blanc (striped dolphin) ne me sont maintenant plus tout à fait des inconnus… le risotto et le pesto non plus d’ailleurs !

Virginie (France)

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La seconda volta dicono sempre che non sia come la prima, ma questa volta posso dire che la cosa non sia vera. Ho avuto una bellissima settimana l’anno scorso e un’altra altrettanto bella quest’anno. Quando sono su Pelagos si vedono sempre cose bellissime! Un grande grazie a Viri i suoi sorrisi ci hanno aiutato a superare anche i giorni di pioggia e a Paolo per i suoi consigli da esperto marinaio! Un grazie anche ad Anna Elisa e Maria che con i loro racconti hanno lasciato nel nostro cuore un pezzetto della loro passione per i cetacei! Un grande grazie anche a tutto il Mola mola fun club!

Claudia (Italy)