Interview with

ANGIE GULLAN

Connecting with Wild Dolphins in Mozambique

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In this session, Angie shares her insights on:

  • Her first encounters with dolphins and what lead her to establish Africa’s first wild dolphin encounter programme

  • How she ensures a safe space is created for human - dolphin encounters and ‘conscious interaction’

  • Her communication with the dolphins and what she has learned from them

  • How we can join her and meet the dolphins

Angie Gullan is a pivotal figure in the realm of ethical marine mammal tourism, particularly known for her work with the wild Dolphins of Ponta do Ouro, Mozambique. Since her first encounter with these dolphins in December 1994, Angie has dedicated nearly three decades to researching, conserving, and fostering human-dolphin interactions that prioritise the well-being of these marine mammals.

In 1996, she co-founded Dolphin Encountours Research Center, pioneering Africa's first structured wild dolphin swim program. Their approach emphasises education and respect, ensuring interactions are on the dolphins' terms, a philosophy she terms "conscious interaction." Angie's work has been instrumental in establishing guidelines for dolphin tourism in the area, collaborating with scientists like Dr. Vic Cockroft and Dr. Almeida Guissamulo to develop codes of conduct and operator limitations that minimise stress on the dolphins.

Through DolphinCareAfrica, the research and conservation arm of Dolphin Encountours, Angie has collected extensive data, cataloging over 250 individual dolphins and tracking lineage through multiple generations. Her efforts have contributed significantly to understanding the behavior, population dynamics, and impact of tourism on these Indo-Pacific bottlenose dolphins.

Angie has also faced and overcome challenges, including the devastating fire in 2010 that destroyed her facilities, yet she persisted in her mission. Her work extends beyond snorkelling with dolphins; she shares her knowledge through various platforms, including media appearances and presentations, advocating for sustainable marine mammal tourism. Her commitment to the dolphins of Ponta has not only enriched our understanding but also inspired a global audience to appreciate and respect these intelligent creatures.