What is the guideline for encountering a dolphin while kayaking?

• A. Chase and feed the dolphin
• B. Do not chase or feed, maintain distance
• C. Approach from behind
• D. Splash to scare it away

Answer: (B)

When you see dolphins while kayaking, the focus is on keeping wildlife safe and staying out of their natural behaviors. The best guideline is to not chase or feed the dolphin and to maintain a respectful distance. Feeding teaches dolphins to associate boats with food, which can lead them to follow or crowd paddlers, increasing the risk of close encounters, habituation, and potential harm to both the animals and people. Chasing can stress the dolphin and create unpredictable movements, raising the chance of a collision with your kayak. Approaching from behind or splashing to scare it away reads the situation as a threat or interference and can provoke a defensive response. Instead, ease off, allow space, and watch from a distance, letting the dolphin move away on its own while you remain calm and observant.