Dolphins Appear To Be ‘Glowing’ As They Swim Through Bioluminescent Algae In Surreal Footage
Sometimes we are so busy with life that we don’t take the time to observe all the natural beauty around us. Thankfully, there are photographers and videographers capturing unique moments and sharing them with the rest of the world.
Patrick Coyne, photographer/videographer from California, recently captured rare footage of dolphins swimming through bioluminescent algae off the coast of Newport. The dolphins appear to be glowing as they glide through the water filled with tiny bioluminescent organisms that give off light as a fear response.
While most people have not been lucky enough to see ‘glowing dolphins’ in person, NOAA states that bioluminescent organisms are commonly found in the ocean. “If you’ve ever seen a firefly, you have encountered a bioluminescent organism. In the ocean, bioluminescence is not as rare as you might think. In fact, most types of animals, from bacteria to sharks, include some bioluminescent members.”
Screen Shot: Instagram/Patrick Coyne
However, capturing the exact moment on camera is no easy task. “For starters the bioluminescence has sweet spots to where it shows up and then fades away so while on the water it’s impossible to just find it. Not only that but actually finding any type of animal in pitch black is just so ridiculously hard,” said Coyne. He was delighted when he realized he captured the moment perfectly.
Screen Shot: Instagram/Patrick Coyne
The idea to film this natural phenomenon came after watching Night on Earth documentary on Netflix. He headed out with Capt. Ryan with Newport Coastal Adventure in hopes of capturing dolphins swimming in the bioluminescent water.
“We were out for a few hours and on our final stretch back we finally had 2 Dolphins pop up to start the incredible glowing show,” posted Coyne. “A few minutes later and we were greeted by a few more which was insane. I’m honestly still processing this all.”
Screen Shot: Instagram/Patrick Coyne
Capturing the dolphins was a dream come true for Coyne, but it was not his last encounter with the mesmerizing blue glow.
Coyne was speechless when he experienced vibrant blue waves at his hometown beach, Manhattan Beach, shortly after his dolphin experience. He posted, “I really thought things were starting to slow down with the bioluminescence then this happens! My favorite beach in the world had it’s waves crashing with that beautiful blue glow!”
Screen Shots: Instagram/Patrick Coyne
People cannot get enough of the videos and have called them “epic”, “jaw dropping”, and a “once in a lifetime experience”.
Check out the awe-inspiring dolphin video below and don’t forget to share!
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