Hawaiian Spinner Dolphins:

Within a 25 mile length of the coastline of West Hawaii, we monitor (2) resident pods of Hawaiian Spinner Dolphins. We observe and record numbers of adults and juveniles, "dwell time" in coves, area and directions of travel as well as the extent to which humans attempt active interaction with them by boat, kayak and swimming. We complete a fairly lengthy observation form. Observations are made through telescope, binoculars as well as through zoom lenses of cameras.

Unfortunately, there are a number of businesses selling active Dolphin Encounter Programs. There are those that feel this prevents the dolphins from being able to rest from their nocturnal hunting/feeding activities and may result in the dolphins being more susceptible to predation.

On the neighboring islands of Maui and Oahu it has been noted that population numbers of specific dolphins pods have significantly decreased as human interaction has increased.

We view the dolphins as a precious natural resource unique to Hawaii. After we have had an opportunity to gather data over a statistically valid period in time, we will then draw conclusions and make proposals for regulations to the National Marine Fisheries Service in Maryland.

We want to emphasize that we do not intend to use the data we collect to report specific individuals or companies to federal or state authorities. We are not an enforcement arm of any governmental agency nor will we attempt to act in this capacity. We simply do not want to see dolphin numbers decreased because of human interaction and hope any recommendations we make will prevent this from happening.

Green Sea Turtle:

Although the Green Sea Turtle is on the endangered species list, it seems to be making a robust comeback as a species; at least on the Big Island. Hawaiian Waters supports a fairly numerous and healthy population.

In much the same manner that we record data for a statistically valid assessment that pertains to the Hawaiian Spinner Dolphins, we routinely collect data on the Green Sea Turtles. There are many areas along the west coast of the island that they can be observed and detailed observations can be recorded without interfering with their natural behavior. In the near future we hope that the Green Sea Turtle will "upgrade" from an endangered to a threatened species.

Manta Rays:

In addition to being special for many other reasons, the Big Island of Hawaii is very unique in that Manta Rays can be regularly observed by divers and snorkelers with a high degree of certainty.

Not much is known about Manta Rays due in part to the difficulty of studying a non-territorial creature and the resources required to make those observations (boats, crews, etc.).

Fortunately our photo and video activities put our staff, interns and volunteers in the water with Manta Rays almost every night. This allows us to collect data which assist us in better understanding their behavior and the degree of effect, if any, that exposure to humans alters movements and reproductive activity. We are currently studying the feasibility of implementing a satellite tracking program.