Under the right conditions, the waters of the Wild Coast boil with predators arriving to devour the billions of sardines furiously fighting for survival. Hundreds of Cape gannets and cormorants launch aerial attacks, while many species of shark, dolphin, seal and game fish dart around beneath the surface trying to get their share of the feast. Bryde’s whales are often seen rocketing up from below, taking in massive gulps at a time. It’s an unbelievable show, but why does it occur?
Sardines, or pilchards, are typically found in cold, nutrientrich waters where they feed on phytoplankton. In South Africa, the main spawning grounds for these fish are off the southern Cape coast, where adults gather for a prolonged breeding season through the spring and early summer. Each female releases tens of thousands of eggs into the water, which are then fertilised by the males and left to drift off in the currents up the west coast. Once developed, they return to complete their two-to-three-year life cycle.
However, during the winter months of June and July, north-easterly winds assist in the penetration of cooler water eastwards towards Port St Johns. This effectively expands the suitable habitat for sardines and massive shoals become trapped in these pockets of cooler water that flow inshore when they meet the southerly flowing Agulhas current. There is nowhere for them to escape and, as a defence mechanism against the onslaught of predators, they frantically group together, forming what’s known to some as bait balls and banquets to others.
The journey itself has earned the title “˜the sardine run’. Its incredible action will have your heart pumping and eyes bulging, whether you’re diving, snorkelling or watching from a boat. Even though it is unpredictable and can be pretty costly, any nature lover, photographer or water enthusiast should experience this dazzling wildlife extravaganza at least once in their lifetime. Many return year after year for the action.
Watch the teaser here
Book your trip
- Steve Benjamin www.animalocean.co.za
- Lesley Rochat www.lesleyrochat.com
- Chris Fallows www.apexpredators.com
