Dolphin study & documentary
With Port-Cros National Park
Dolphins and their relationship with humans
The relationship between humans and dolphins, as well as the way people perceive these remarkable animals, has evolved significantly throughout history. In ancient times, dolphins were revered in Greek mythology as symbols of the nurturing sea, often associated with feminine deities. The word "dolphin" itself is derived from "delphus," meaning womb or matrix, highlighting their connection to life and creation.
Dolphins possess several endearing qualities: their "smiling" and playful demeanour, coupled with their beauty and grace, have long captivated human imagination. They are often seen as allies to humans, known for their stories of rescuing people at sea, and are considered natural adversaries to the fearsome shark, which is typically portrayed as a dangerous predator. Much like the panda, dolphins have become symbols of ecological conservation efforts, while their entertaining antics mean they are often held in captivity to perform shows in waterparks.
The documentary
The project aims to document and showcase the multifaceted nature of dolphins, with the goal of broadening perspectives and fostering dialogue among marine stakeholders in the Mediterranean. The documentary will feature a rich collection of footage shot in France and Italy, including interviews, sea voyages, and coastal explorations. By presenting a variety of viewpoints, the film will explore new ideas and provide valuable insights for Pelagos Sanctuary managers, while also highlighting both the common ground and differing approaches in dolphin conservation efforts.
Port-Cros national park
Established in 1999, the Pelagos Sanctuary for the Conservation of Marine Mammals is the first cross-border protected area in the Mediterranean Sea dedicated to safeguarding marine mammals. The Port-Cros National Park plays a key role in preserving the natural environment on the mainland, surrounding islands, and the marine areas around the Hyères harbor (Var). The park's protected zones encompass 1,700 hectares of land and 2,900 hectares of marine areas.
Several dolphin species regularly inhabit the Sanctuary, each with its own distinct lifestyle, behaviours, and social interactions. These dolphins are an integral part of the marine ecosystem, and their presence underscores the importance of the Sanctuary's conservation efforts.
