Rare dolphin, unlikely rider

A photographer captured an octopus clinging to the dorsal fin of a Risso's dolphin off Devon's Berry Head. The encounter shows the octopus being preyed upon by the marine mammal.

Meet the Risso's dolphin

Risso's dolphins are identified by their bulbous foreheads, lack of beaks, and scarred skin. They start life gray but become increasingly white as they age.

Octopus is on the menu

Risso's dolphins regularly prey on octopus, but this particular encounter is unusual because the octopus appears to be straddling the dolphin while holding onto its dorsal fin.

Evidence for ongoing research

The Marine Biological Association is using these photographs as vital evidence for research into an octopus bloom and its impact on marine life in Devon and Cornwall.

Citizen science in action

Bill Coulson, a volunteer with the University of Exeter's Risso's Dolphin Project South West, captured these images. His work demonstrates how amateur photographers contribute valuable observations to scientific research.

“These photographs offer a fascinating glimpse into the feeding ecology of Risso's dolphins and the changing marine environment around our coasts.”

Photography bridges the gap

As camera technology becomes more accessible, amateur photographers like Bill are documenting marine wildlife encounters that would otherwise go unrecorded, providing invaluable data for conservation efforts.