Tales From the Lagoon ~ Nursery School is in session

Tales from the Lagoon ~ Episode- Nursery School is in Session

Just after sunrise before the sun was shining on the river, a maternity pod came into the lagoon. A maternity pod of dolphin is a group of moms and their calves making up a dolphin “nursery.”

This morning it seemed the moms were having class time with valuable lessons on proper technique to toss a fish, navigate fishermen nets and hungry pelicans. School started with the calves practicing their tossing skills with a mangrove seeds.

After about 15 minutes of warming up with the seed they moved on to fish. The moms stayed close like they were giving tips. “It’s like this sweetie, hold the fish in your mouth, turn your head a little to the right then as you turn your head left, toss the fish at the same time.”

It was so cute to witness the little ones hold themselves up and toss the fish, It felt like I was watching a joyful child take the training wheels off her bike and ride solo with giddy excitement.

The moms were also closely watching the nets from the fishermen and the encroaching pelicans. The pelicans were close with the moms on their side. The pelicans managed to swoop in and pick up a flying fish. After that it appears the mom and calf took some quiet time to nurse and rest.

So much to learn! The calves seemed to love being in school, I hope we get to see more. Stay tuned for more tales!

Nursery school is in session.

Mom said, "Just turn your head to the right, then when you turn back release the fish."

Like this!

Warming up with a mangrove seed

Pelican is eyeing the mullet….mom is close by to assist if needed

Getting closer….

Pelicans made their move and stole the fish.