Slovenian dolphin project

The Slovenian Dolphin Project is a long-term program of research, monitoring, and conservation of the bottlenose dolphin species (Tursiops truncatus) in Slovenian and surrounding waters. This is the first long-term and systematic study of dolphins in Slovenia. The project was established in 2002 when almost nothing was known about dolphins in Slovenia. In fact, dolphins were not considered a permanent part of Slovenian fauna, but rather it was believed that they only occasionally visited our waters. However, through systematic expeditions with boats, observation from land, and photo-identification, the Morigenos team discovered and documented a small but permanent population of bottlenose dolphins in this area. We have been studying and monitoring these animals ever since.

Aim

The primary aim of the Slovenian Dolphin Project is to conduct long-term research, monitoring, and conservation efforts focused on the bottlenose dolphin species (Tursiops truncatus) in Slovenian and surrounding waters. The project was established in 2002 when there was limited knowledge about dolphins in Slovenia. The project's primary goal is to study and monitor the bottlenose dolphin population in the region systematically. Through systematic expeditions with boats, observations from land, and photo-identification techniques, the Morigenos team made a significant discovery. They documented the existence of a small but permanent population of bottlenose dolphins in the area. Since the initial discovery, the project has continued to study and monitor dolphins, focusing on various aspects such as population dynamics, behavior, ecology, and conservation needs. By collecting long-term data, the project aims to gain a comprehensive understanding of the dolphin population's status, distribution, and habitat use in Slovenian and surrounding waters.

Needed equipment

The Slovenian Dolphin Project utilizes various equipment and tools for its research, monitoring, and conservation activities. These include:

• Boat for systematic expeditions to survey dolphin populations and study their behavior.
• High-resolution cameras are used to capture detailed images of dorsal fins and markings for identification purposes. Photo-identification is a crucial method used in project.
• Binoculars that are used for observations from land.
• Hydrophones and Acoustic Recording Equipment are used to capture dolphin vocalizations and underwater sounds.

About funding

Funding bodies: NGO

Created Sept. 5, 2023, 12:48 p.m.

Updated Sept. 6, 2023, 10:27 a.m.

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Morigenos - the Slovenian Mar…

Non-governmental

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