Photographer captures octopus riding rarely seen dolphin, provides valuable evidence for ongoing research

A photographer has managed to capture an incredible moment between a dolphin and an octopus, in which the hapless mollusc was preyed upon by the mammal, identified as a Risso’s dolphin (Grampus griseus). According to the Wildlife Trusts, this distinctive species is identified by its bulbous forehead, lack of a beak, and scarred skin. They start life gray in color, but become increasingly white as they age.

Scotland is a UK hotspot, but they are seen further south, including the South West of England, which is where Bill Coulson photographed this particular encounter. Risso’s dolphins prey on octopus, but it’s the nature of this encounter that makes it so photo-worthy. Bill has managed to capture the octopus as it appears to straddle the predator, holding onto the tall, distinctive dorsal fin for dear life.

Vital research

But these aren’t just photographs of an incredible moment. According to the Marine Biological Association, they’re being used as vital evidence for research into an ongoing octopus bloom and its impact on marine life in Devon and Cornwall.

The images captured off Devon’s Berry Head were no accident. Bill Coulson is a member of the University of Exeter’s Risso’s Dolphin Project South West, which provides research and conservation for the charming species.

University of Exeter MSc researcher, Josh Symes, was quoted by the Marine Biological Association as stating: “These photographs offer a fascinating glimpse into the feeding ecology of Risso’s dolphins and the changing marine environment around our coasts (...) The images also highlight the value of citizen science, as observations from volunteers are helping us build a clearer picture of marine wildlife across the Southwest.”

This is an interesting point. Digital Camera World often reports on camera trap sightings, but photography has become so accessible, more and more amateur photographers such as Bill are providing a valuable service by documenting what they see.

Marine photography equipment

If you’re interested in photographing dolphins from the surface, an ethical, chartered trip might get you close enough for a few camera phone or compact camera snaps. But if you’re sighting marine life from the coast, you’ll be best served by using a long super-telephoto lens so you can bridge the gap. Even then, it depends on how far out to sea the marine life is. As such, I’d recommend working with a 600mm equivalent focal lens or even longer. Another option would be a bridge camera with a long optical zoom range.

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