BORACAY ISLAND, Aklan - Fisherfolk and tourists going boating off the shores of this island-resort have reported a welcome sight for conservationists: hundreds of dolphins appearing at times in the waters.
The increased number of dolphins was observed by fisherfolk starting sometime in April at an area around four kilometers off the shoreline of Barangay Nausug in Malay town across Boracay Island, said Denric Sadiasa, agricultural technologist of the Malay municipal agriculture office.
Called locally as “lumba-lumba,” fisherfolk estimated the number of dolphins swimming together to reach from 400 to 500 but they only appeared at certain times and stayed away from boats, according to Sadiasa.
Sadiasa said he personally saw around 50 dolphins two weeks ago while on board a Bantay Dagat patrol boat in the waters off Boracay Island.
“They were full grown dolphins but they were around a kilometer away from us,” Sadiasa said.
Dolphins are considered as among the most intelligent mammals and are known for their ability to learn and imitate human actions. They are widely loved because of their friendly appearance and playful behavior.
Sadiasa recalled that dolphins were present in the area many years back but their numbers significantly declined, allegedly due to rampant illegal fishing that could have depleted their food source.
Mostly found in shallow seas, the dolphins are carnivores that mostly eat fish and squid, according to Sadiasa.
He explained that since 2004, the municipality has been heightening its campaign against illegal fishing and have arrested or fined those violating fisheries laws and ordinances meant to protect marine life.
A dolphin was accidentally caught on a fishing line a week ago but was released by a fisherman.
“The fisherfolk and residents here are aware that it is illegal to catch and kill dolphins,” Sadiasa said.
He said the dolphins could have returned because of the increased food supply due to the curbing of illegal fishing in the area.
Resort owner and community leader Nenette Aguirre-Graf, said several tourists who have gone boating and divers have also reported seeing the dolphins.
“They reported a spectacular sight and we are happy that (the dolphins) have come back,” Graf said.
Sadiasa said they would intensify their education and information campaign among residents and fisherfolk to ensure that the dolphins would not be hunted and harmed.
| < Prev | Next > |
|---|
