Chesapeake Bay — April 25, 2025 —
Dolphin sightings are surging in the Chesapeake Bay according to recent reports. The bottlenose dolphins, whose presence signals ecological health, are increasingly seen in the waters. Experts point to warmer waters and abundant food sources as vital to thier comeback, and are calling for further study.
Dolphin Sightings Surge in Chesapeake Bay, Signaling Ecosystem Recovery
Table of Contents
Chesapeake bay, April 25, 2025
A Welcome Return
Bottlenose dolphins are increasingly gracing the waters of the Chesapeake Bay, a trend experts view as a promising sign of the bay’s ecological recovery. As the water warms, these charismatic marine mammals are venturing further north, even beyond the Bay Bridge and towards Baltimore’s waters.
Expert Insight
Jamie Testa,a dolphin expert at the University of Maryland’s Center for Environmental Science,notes that while dolphin sightings deeper in the bay are an annual occurrence,they appear to be on the rise. This increase suggests a healthier, more hospitable environment for these marine mammals.
It’s a wonderful sign that our beloved bottlenose dolphins are coming into the Bay. They are feeding. They are bringing their young. It signals really good things about our fisheries and that they can find a diversity of food here. It points to a sign of things improving and things being hospitable for them.
Jamie Testa, University of Maryland’s Center for Environmental Science
Bay Geography and Dolphin Distribution
Researchers divide the Chesapeake Bay into three sections to monitor dolphin activity:
- Southern Bay: From the Atlantic Ocean to the Virginia/Maryland state line. Dolphins are commonly seen here year-round.
- Mid-Bay: Extends north to the Bay Bridge. Dolphin sightings are typical in spring and summer.
- Northern Bay: Includes waters north of the Bay Bridge, reaching baltimore and its tributaries. Dolphins usually appear here from late May through September.
Dolphin Behaviour and Ecology
Bottlenose dolphins, known for their intelligence, can live up to 60 years, according to the National oceanic and Atmospheric Governance. While typically found in tropical seawater, they adapt well to the Chesapeake Bay’s brackish waters, especially during the warmer months. The Chesapeake Bay is home to more than 3,600 local and migratory species, among which is the charismatic, yet elusive bottlenose dolphin [[2]].
Responsible Dolphin Watching
While dolphins are social creatures, it’s crucial to observe them responsibly. Testa advises against getting too close, recommending a distance of at least 50 yards. She notes that dolphins often put on a show, especially when they know they’re being watched.
They can see them from their waterfront yards, their back decks, having a cup of coffee in the morning. If you are watching dolphins responsibly, you are maintaining about 50 yards of distance.
Jamie Testa, University of Maryland’s Center for Environmental Science
Track Dolphin Sightings
stay updated on bottlenose dolphin sightings through the Chesapeake Dolphin Watch website. This citizen-science initiative uses sighting reports from the Chesapeake DolphinWatch app and acoustic data to track dolphins in the Chesapeake Bay in an effort to understand their seasonal movements [[1]].
FAQ: Dolphins in the Chesapeake Bay
- Why are dolphins in the Chesapeake Bay?
- They come to feed and raise their young,attracted by the bay’s diverse food sources.
- When is the best time to see dolphins?
- Spring and summer, especially from late May through September in the northern bay.
- Where are dolphins most commonly seen?
- From the mouth of the Atlantic ocean up to baltimore, depending on the season.
- How close can I get to a dolphin?
- Maintain a distance of at least 50 yards to avoid disturbing them.
