Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
CLOSE ENCOUNTERS: DOLPHIN SWIMS
Signing up for a 'dolphin encounter' in Hawaii deserves careful consideration. Al-
though many programs claim to be educational and ecofriendly, the effects of
human-dolphin interaction can be far more complex. Some widely reported con-
cerns:
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In the wild, acrobatic spinner dolphins are nocturnal feeders that come into
sheltered bays during the day to rest; they are sensitive to human disturbance, and
federal guidelines recommend that swimmers don't approach within 50yd. Some
tour boats allow swimmers to approach the dolphins much closer than this.
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According to marine biologists, encountering humans can tire dolphins out, leav-
ing them without enough critical energy to feed or defend themselves later.
Repeated encounters with humans have driven some dolphins out of their natural
habitats to seek less-safe resting places, where they may be predated upon.
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In captivity, dolphins are trained to perform for humans using a variety of tech-
niques, ranging from positive behavioral training to food deprivation. They may
also be exposed to human-borne illnesses and bacteria, and sustain damage to
their dorsal fins by swimmers.
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The US National Marine Fisheries Service has reported that 'dolphin encounter'
programs tend to make captive animals act more aggressively, especially if the hu-
man participants are nervous. Injuries to human participants, such as broken arms
and ribs, have occurred.
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The Oscar-winning documentaryThe Cove, featuring an ex-dolphin trainer
turned activist, looks at the 'dolphinarium' biz and the global industry of dolphin
captivity. Learn more at
www.thecovemovie.com
.
Tread Lightly
So many travelers come to enjoy Hawaii's gorgeous scenery and myriad wildlife that
only strict protections keep certain mega-popular places - like Oʻahu's Hanauma Bay -
from being loved to death. But many equally scenic and fragile areas have fewer regula-
tions, or little oversight, and the question becomes: just because you can do something,
should you?
Every step we take has an impact, but we can minimize the effect by being aware of
our surroundings. So what are the best ways to experience Hawaii's natural beauty
without harming it in the process? For some outdoor activities, there isn't a single defin-
itive answer, but here are some universal guidelines and best practices to consider:
