The Spinner dolphins that frequent Hawaiian shores, have shown to be shy and reserved and only recently, in the past two decades, have they begun to interact with humans on a common basis. This interaction can be seen in a variety of ways from a strictly scientific view to something akin to a profound spiritual experience. I personally prefer to approach this understanding as one might look upon a masterpiece of Abstract Art. It then becomes a subjective attitude based upon experiential awareness. It also releases any restrictions or bias one might have about such non-linear thinking and interpretations. Your reaction then becomes highly personalized.

This interaction is of a very subtle nature and often goes unnoticed at first. The few people who have had significant encounters to date have all been ready to access another part of their consciousness, and thus, when something has occurred they've responded accordingly. That response ranges from simple feelings of euphoria and joy, to unaccountable shifts in perception. Much of it depends on what the individual is ready to receive. Each encounter is different and unpredictable as the dolphins are wary of any human contact, and for good reason: we've been slaughtering them in mass for generations.

To obtain an intimate encounter with one of these demure creatures, one must enter their domain as a guest would enter a temple: with reverence and humility. If neither fear nor aggression is demonstrated by the swimmer, the dolphins could decide to interact. This may happen in a variety of ways:
- They may make a pass as close as inches from your face, allowing for direct eye contact.
- They may blow a stream of bubbles or create a specific body language.
- They could engage you in a 'leaf game' of give and take, drop and fetch.
- They may also encompass you with their sonar waves, some audible, in the form of clicks and/or whistling sounds, most others beyond the range of the human ear.

Human sonar hardware technology is quite crude compared to the evolved wetware of Cetaceans, however we do know that they can literally see right through people and objects with their remarkable sonic capabilities and sensitivities.  Many people have reported actual physical healings from encounters as it is believed that what cetaceans can do quite naturally, is balance the energy centers in the body known as Chakras in the Eastern philosophies and sciences. The opening of these seven energy centers are essential keys to opening up levels of consciousness in humans, but much of this process is still veiled in mystery (and fear) here in Western society.

Human "pod" initiates never attempt to touch the dolphins, as their skin is ultra sensitive, and even a fingernail can scratch and transmit bacteria. So when the dolphins come in proximity, proper etiquette is to put your hands at your sides or at the small of your back, to let them know you have no intention of reaching out at them. Any attempt to do so often results in them moving away and not returning.

Likewise, feeding them is out of the question. There are reported cases, such as those in Panama City, FL, where people have been luring pods in by throwing whatever garbage food they have over the boats at them. Like children, they can be coerced into such things, but this is not the kind of interaction that is meaningful to either species.

Leafgame, © John Malcolm Smith

I recommend the following:

1. Let the dolphins approach you. Maintain a quiet, relaxed manner when swimming among or near them. Avoid separating dolphins from the pod at large.

2. Swim with your hands by your sides. Chasing after, reaching for, or touching the dolphins will frighten or startle them, and they will move away.

3. Leave foreign objects ashore, such as rope, plastics, or playtoys. Dolphins prefer to find and play with leaves and other organic debris. Follow their lead.

4. Trust in nature’s food supply. To attempt to feed wild dolphins would be harmful to their health needs as well as their social behaviors.

5. Be sensitive to dolphin behaviors. If they are in a state of rest or traveling, please respect that they may choose not to interact with you. Honor their habitat.

6. Be considerate. Watch out for other swimmers, allowing them adequate space for an intimate encounter.

7. Be cautious approaching by boat. Watch for swimmers. When near whales and dolphins, go slowly, quietly and with focused attention so as not to disturb or change
their course or behaviors.

8. Avoid sudden actions or noise. Erratic changes in speed, direction, or sound can confuse or startle dolphins.

Dolphins and whales are protected under the Marine Mammal Protection Act. Under the act it is illegal to harass, hunt, capture, collect, or kill any marine mammal. Swimmers and boaters should make every effort to avoid disturbing them in their natural environment.

Stay within a safe distance from land or boat. Watch for changing weather and sea conditions. If you have any concerns about your safety, stay ashore.

Hawaiian Spinner Dolphins are found feeding in the coastal waters offshore at night.
During the day, they move into waters near shore and protected bays to rest and play.

Dolphins at rest will surface for only brief periods of time, sustaining long deep dives
together. In this state they show little interest in humans.

Play mode is indicated by an increase in their aerial behavior, vocalization, splitting into smaller groups, and speeding up, generally favorable conditions for dolphins to initiate an encounter with humans.

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©Anela Naia, Inc.

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