News

The marine activities of the ImPelaghiamoci project officially began with an intense week of cetacean observation between Stintino and the Gulf of Asinara. And patience was rewarded: three bottlenose dolphins were spotted by the scientific team, joined by students and teachers from high schools in the Municipality of Sassari, as well as officials from the Pelagos Sanctuary municipalities. 

It was a moment of great emotion—even for those with prior sighting experience—such as Laura Pintore, marine megafauna expert with the MEDSEA Foundation, scientific partner of the project. She was on board along with representatives from the Municipality of Sassari and professionals from Futurismo – Escursioni Asinara. 

Promoted by the Municipality of Sassari with the support of the Italian Ministry of the Environment and Energy Security, the Pelagos Agreement, and with the scientific contribution of MEDSEA, ImPelaghiamoci aims to raise awareness and deepen public knowledge of cetaceans, especially among younger generations. Through a mix of classroom-based learning and field activities, the project offers a concrete opportunity to recognize marine species, understand their behavior, and contribute to their protection. 

The Bottlenose Dolphin: Who It Is and Where It Lives 

The bottlenose dolphin (Tursiops truncatus) is one of the most well-known and extensively studied cetaceans worldwide. It is distinguished by its intelligence, sociability, and adaptability. It can grow up to 3.5 meters in length and weigh up to 400 kg, with a grayish color that fades to a lighter belly. While it typically inhabits shallow coastal waters, it can also be found in open seas. 

In the Mediterranean, and particularly within the Pelagos Sanctuary, its presence is notable. The Sanctuary is a large international marine protected area established in 1999 through an agreement between Italy, France, and the Principality of Monaco, covering approximately 87,500 km². It stands as a rare example of cross-border cooperation for the conservation of marine mammals. 

The bottlenose dolphin is an opportunistic predator, feeding on fish, cephalopods, and crustaceans. It uses echolocation to hunt, allowing it to locate prey even in murky waters. It often hunts cooperatively, working in groups to surround schools of fish and increase success. 

Females give birth to a single calf after a gestation period of about 12 months. At birth, the calf measures around one meter and weighs 10–15 kg. Nursing lasts up to 18 months, and maternal care often continues well beyond weaning, highlighting the strong social bonds within dolphin pods. 

“Knowing to protect” is the guiding principle of ImPelaghiamoci. Only through direct, science-based knowledge of cetaceans can we truly commit to protecting these species and the fragile marine habitats of the Mediterranean. 

Learn more about the project.