Popcorn is here to stay
By Jake Keeton

1. News

In between all the strong winds and rain we have been experiencing, we have had to make the most of any small gaps that the weather gives us. Patience and perseverance paid off for our guests that joined us on 12 October 2024. With no shortage of dolphins on the day we were scanning the pods carefully for any sign of the rare white Dolphin - 'Popcorn'. 

We had not seen popcorn for a few months; thus we were beginning to feel some concern for the well-being of the white youngster. There will always be this concern as the white colouration stands out to predators. Whilst observing the largest pod of the day, approximately 150 individuals, we finally spotted Popcorn. Nestled safely in the middle of the pod, Popcorn was swimming happily next to mum. 

Upon first glance, it was clear that Popcorn has grown considerably. One could use the phrase, 'fat and flourishing'. Second to that was the freedom in which Popcorn moved around the Pod as they were traveling, often leaving mom's side and appearing to chase, play or socialize with other juveniles in the Pod. 

Popcorn was first seen by Raggy Charters as a one-month-old calf in April 2023. That makes him/her approximately 1 year and 6 months old today. At this stage we do not know what sex Popcorn is. Hopefully we will find out one day when he or she is old enough to reproduce. In Southern Right Whales, 4% of the population is born white and almost all of these white individuals are male. This is the only piece of information that leads us to believe that Popcorn could be a male. 

We look forward to observing Popcorn go through the phases of life in Algoa Bay, and occasionally provide our guests on board with a once in a lifetime sighting. Keep an eye on our Page and YouTube Channel for updates on this special little Dolphin that shares our Bay with us.

Our most Recent Sighting of Popcorn 12 October 2024

12 October 2024: I kept this shot as it shows a comparison in body size between Popcorn and the two adults, left and right.

Popcorn seen close to the beachfront during September 2023. You can notice in this image how Popcorn's body shape and bulbous head still resembles that of a young calf. 

Popcorn as a young calf just a few months old.