Dolphins do not hibernate during the winter months. Instead, they adapt to the changing environmental conditions by either migrating to warmer waters or adjusting their behaviors to cope with colder temperatures. The coastal waters of Myrtle Beach, with their relatively mild temperatures, provide a suitable habitat for dolphins throughout the year.
Think of them as our snowbirds. In the winter, some dolphins, as well as people, migrate south to warmer temperatures, but many stay in their area year-round. Dolphins stay in the Myrtle Beach area because the water temperature typically doesn’t drop to levels that would force them to leave. These dolphins continue to hunt for fish and remain active throughout the winter.
Do all dolphins migrate?
No, not all dolphins migrate. Those living in tropical or subtropical regions, where water temperatures remain relatively warm year-round, may stay in the same general area year-round without the need for significant behavioral changes.
It basically all comes down to behavior not biology. Dolphins who migrate during the winter and dolphins who don’t are biologically identical. Again, just like people, some cannot tolerate the cold and for others it doesn’t bother them.
How do dolphins adjust their behaviors to cope with colder temps?
Dolphins are warm-blooded mammals and need to maintain a stable internal body temperature, so if they stay in colder regions, they may increase their food intake to generate more body heat. Some species of dolphins that live in temperate or polar regions have blubber to help insulate them from the cold.
Although their behavior can change slightly depending on the water temperature and availability of food, dolphins do not become significantly less active during the winter. They may also alter their feeding patterns by spending more time hunting for food.
Why does Sea Racer Dolphin Tours stop boat trips in the winter?
Historically, the average water temperature in Myrtle Beach stays between the mid 80s and down to 70 degrees, making it comfortable for dolphins year round. While the average air temperature can get down to between 60 to the mid 40s degrees, which is pretty cold. Add to that, the temperature can be 10 degrees cooler on a boat. We don’t believe that anyone would enjoy that trip, even if there are a lot of dolphins to see.
So no, dolphins do not hibernate during the winter months. Most of our Myrtle Beach dolphins stay right here swimming and fishing all year round. It’s just too cold for the humans to be out on the water.
