Enchanting encounter: Dolphins grace İstanbul's Bosphorus

Photo: AA

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Dolphins escorting ships through İstanbul's Bosphorus Strait were captured on film in Arnavutköy, adding a touch of wonder to Turkey's marine scenery.

Turkey's coastal waters boast a diverse range of dolphin species, with five of them, including the elusive ones, making occasional appearances: Harbor porpoises (Phocoena phocoena), Bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops truncatus), Common dolphins (Delphinus delphis), Striped dolphins (Stenella coeruleoalba), and Risso's dolphins (Grampus griseus).

In the scientific realm, whales and dolphins are categorized into two groups: toothed and baleen, collectively referred to as cetaceans. 

However, the presence of these captivating marine mammals is under threat. Eight cetacean species, such as fin whales, sperm whales, Cuvier's beaked whales, Risso's dolphins, bottlenose dolphins, striped dolphins, common dolphins, and harbor porpoises, inhabit the seas of Turkey.

Unfortunately, the İstanbul and Çanakkale Straits, along with the Sea of Marmara, face challenges in the form of pollution and excessive fishing, endangering the delicate existence of these charismatic dolphins and majestic whales. Surprisingly, the precise population figures of these marine creatures in the region remained uncertain until three years ago.

Despite the concerning situation, the recent sightings of dolphins navigating the bustling waters of the İstanbul Strait serve as a gentle reminder of the awe-inspiring beauty that nature offers. 

As efforts to preserve the marine ecosystem continue, it is hoped that the enchanting presence of dolphins will persist, allowing future generations to appreciate the magic that unfolds in Turkey's vibrant seas. (TY/VK)