SARASOTA, Fla. - Sarasota Bay is bustling with boaters this time of year, but it's also a busy season for the resident dolphins, especially with the arrival of new calves.

"In May, June, and July, we see most of the calves being born," said Dr. Randall Wells, director of the Sarasota Dolphin Research Program at Brookfield Zoo Chicago. "This is a critical time for the dolphin population in Sarasota Bay as new mothers guide their calves through the challenges of their aquatic environment."

So far this season, six dolphin calves have been born, with five surviving. For 48 years, Dr. Wells has observed dolphin calves as they adapt to their surroundings, learning crucial survival skills from their mothers.

"It’s always fun to see them with their moms learning how to survive in an ever-changing environment," Wells shared, noting the unique bond between mother and calf. "The early stages are particularly fascinating as the calves learn to navigate, find food, and communicate."

However, the environment poses numerous dangers, many of which are human-induced. "Often times they have to face more than one danger, and they don’t get to choose that," Wells explained. "Mom is trying to teach them how to deal with it, but in the early stages, trying to avoid boats that are passing over them or that are nearby can be really challenging, especially with the boat noise interfering with the communication signals."

One of the most significant threats to dolphins in Sarasota Bay is fishing line, which can be almost invisible in the water. This year alone, there have been two rescues in Sarasota Bay involving dolphins entangled in fishing line. A 4-year-old calf had its dorsal fin disfigured by fishing line, and an 8-year-old dolphin had fishing line cutting deeply into its tail fluke, causing severe injury.

"Watching them go through this is a very painful process, a very damaging process, it's very difficult," Wells lamented, highlighting the distress these incidents cause both the animals and the researchers who work tirelessly to protect them.

The frequency of boat traffic adds to the challenges faced by the dolphins. Researchers have recorded that every six minutes, a boat passes within 100 yards of a dolphin in Sarasota Bay. This high level of boat traffic can disrupt the dolphins' natural behavior and make it difficult for mothers to care for their calves.

Wells emphasizes the importance of boaters giving all dolphins, especially mothers and their new babies, at least 50 yards of space. This buffer zone helps minimize disturbance and allows for the crucial bonding and learning between mother and calf.

"To minimize disturbance and minimize interference with the development of the mother-baby bond, stay about 50 yards away," Wells advised. "Enjoy the view. Enjoy seeing something really special, which goes along with all of the other special things we get to see in Sarasota Bay, but give the animals their space."

Respecting these guidelines is essential for the safety and well-being of the dolphin population in Sarasota Bay. Boaters are encouraged to be mindful of their speed and noise levels, especially in areas known to be frequented by dolphins. Additionally, avoiding the use of fishing lines and other gear that can pose a threat to marine life is crucial.

Sarasota Bay's dolphins are not just an iconic part of the local ecosystem but also an indicator of the health of the marine environment. Their well-being reflects the broader health of the bay, which supports a diverse range of marine life. Protecting these dolphins is, therefore, not just about conserving a single species but about maintaining the integrity of the entire ecosystem.

Dr. Wells and his team at the Sarasota Dolphin Research Program continue to monitor the dolphin population closely, conducting research that informs conservation efforts and educates the public about the importance of marine life protection. Their work involves not only direct observation and rescue efforts but also extensive data collection and analysis to understand the impacts of human activities on dolphin health and behavior.

By respecting these guidelines and being mindful of their actions, boaters can help ensure the safety and well-being of Sarasota Bay's dolphin population while enjoying the natural beauty and recreational opportunities the area has to offer. Through community awareness and responsible behavior, the delicate balance of Sarasota Bay's ecosystem can be preserved for future generations to enjoy.