Dolphins and shearwaters hunting C014 / 1776
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Dolphins and shearwaters hunting C014 / 1776
Short-beaked common dolphins (Delphinus delphis) and Corys sheerwaters (Calonectris diomedea) hunting blue jack mackerel (Trachurus picturatus). The mackerel have formed a bait ball, a defensive manoeuvre performed by schooling fish that makes it harder for the predators to pick out individuals. However, it can also draw the attention of other predators, some of which have learnt how to take advantage of the bait ball. Photographed in the Azores
Science Photo Library features Science and Medical images including photos and illustrations
Media ID 9222457
© CHRISTOPHER SWANN/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY
Animal Behaviour Atlantic Ocean Azores Bait Ball Baitball Balled Bird Blue Jack Mackerel Cetacean Co Operation Cooperate Cooperation Corral Defence Defending Defense Defensive Delphinus Delphis Dolphins Evasion Evasive Feeding Formation Hunting Mammal Predation Predator Prey Preying School Schooling Seabird Shoal Shoaling Short Beaked Common Dolphin Spherical Strategy Trachurus Picturatus Underwater Calonectris Diomedea Corys Shearwaters
EDITORS COMMENTS
This print captures a mesmerizing moment in the vast Atlantic Ocean. Short-beaked common dolphins and Corys shearwaters are seen working together to hunt down blue jack mackerel, forming an incredible display of nature's cooperative strategies. The mackerel have cleverly formed a bait ball, creating a spherical formation that serves as their defense mechanism against predators. This tactic makes it challenging for the hunters to single out individuals from the tightly packed group. However, this defensive maneuver also draws the attention of other predators who have learned how to take advantage of such opportunities. Photographed in the Azores, this image showcases not only the beauty but also the complexity of marine biology and animal behavior. The dolphins and shearwaters exhibit remarkable coordination as they navigate through the water in pursuit of their prey. In this underwater spectacle, multiple species come together in an intricate dance of survival and predation. The cetaceans' intelligence is on full display as they strategically cooperate with one another to secure their meal. Meanwhile, seabirds swoop overhead, eager to seize any chance at a feast amidst this dynamic ecosystem. Christopher Swann's lens has captured a snapshot that encapsulates both wonder and awe-inspiring natural phenomena. It serves as a reminder of just how diverse and fascinating our planet's wildlife can be when observed up close – showcasing nature's ability to adapt and thrive even in seemingly harsh environments like these deep ocean waters off the coast of Azores.
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