DOLPHIN Research Australia’s inaugural weekend dolphin ecology workshop on Moreton Bay was a sell out, according to organiser Elizabeth Hawkins.
The workshop took place on-board the Moreton Bay Environment Education Centre’s vessel based at Manly.
The bad news was that no dolphins were seen in the gloomy and choppy conditions.
Dr Hawkins of Dolphin Research Australia said the workshop was a chance for the public to learn about the dolphins of Moreton Bay.
Dr Hawkins, lead researcher in the Moreton Bay Dolphin Research Project, said dolphins used most of the bay although they were not necessarily seen daily.
“Moreton Bay has lots of stressors, there’s lots of activities on the water and dolphins are vulnerable to change,’’ she said.
Dolphins tended to have home territories and those living on one side of the bay near Mud Island did not necessarily tend to like or spend time with dolphins at Amity on North Stradbroke Island.
They were curious and playful creatures, some of which had been seen carrying sticks in their mouths.
Dolphins often played with blue blubber jellyfish, throwing them into the air and passing them to each other. They also did this with sponges.
Dr Hawkins said boaties should keep well clear of dolphins and should not feed them.
“I really enjoy sharing my passion for these animals with the community and letting everyone know just how amazing they are,’’ she said.
