Dolphins at the Bay
A recent report from a Chesapeake Bay expert states that more dolphin sightings are occurring, indicating signs of a healthier bay. The Blake Beat researched the matter and even asked Blake’s science teacher, Mr. O’Connor, for his perspective on this subject.
Local news station, WTOP, released an article in late April titled βChesapeake Bay expert says more dolphin sightings mean the bay is recovering,β where Dolphin expert, Jamie Testa from the University of Maryland’s Center for Environmental Science, said that dolphins are being seen further north in the bay. Testa stated that as the temperature warms throughout the spring and summer, Dolphins will begin to be spotted more often at the Bay. However, recently, there has been a higher increase in sightings, suggesting improvement and healthier waters in the Bay.
The healthier the Chesapeake Bay is, the more marine life and fish begin to build ecosystems in the water. This provides dolphins with a great supply of food. There have also been many improvement efforts by people living in the Bay Area. Fights for improvement in the water quality and protection of marine life cycles have all taken place, contributing to increased sightings of dolphins.
We asked Blake High School science teacher, Mr. OβConnor, for a statement/perspective on what he thinks about the improvements in the bay, and sighting of the dolphins. He shared that βas an avid sailor on the Chesapeake Bay and enthusiastic environmentalist,β the news gives him βhope for the environmental future here in Maryland.β He added that βIt is truly amazing to see nature heal and provide a wonderful environment for our bottlenose dolphins to thrive!β.
