Written by Seven species of whales and dolphins can be found in the Strait of Gibraltar (southern Spain): We regularly observe Common Dolphins, Striped Dolphins (or Blue-white Dolphins), Bottlenose Dolphins and Pilot Whales. Occasionally we also see Orcas, Sperm Whales or Fin Whales.
Once the most abundant dolphin species in the Mediterranean, the Common Dolphin is now considered highly endangered. In the Strait of Gibraltar we often see Common Dolphins in mixed schools with Striped Dolphins. As the name “Common” Dolphin implies, this species was once very common. Unfortunately, the population in the Mediterranean is now severely endangered, which is due to the intensive human use of the coastal regions. These regions are preferred especially by mothers and juveniles, because here they are safe from sharks. But these are also the regions where fishing is most intense, ships navigate and sewage is discharged into the sea. In order to ensure the survival of the Common Dolphins in the Mediterranean, we would have to better protect the coasts in particular. But also the catch of mackerel and sardines (Common Dolphins’ favorite food) should be restricted. Drift nets and purse seines are a particular danger – on the one hand they deprive the animals of their food, on the other hand countless dolphins drown as a result of these fishing methods. Although drift nets have been banned by the European riparian states, they are still used illegally by fishermen.