Category Archives: Bahamas

NASSAU, BAHAMAS Creating an innovative and modern agricultural sector and attracting investments to the agri-business sector will top discussions at the second CARICOM Agri-Investment Forum and Expo taking place in Port-of-Spain, Trinidad, 18 21 August.

In the margins, there will be a meeting of the Lead Heads of the Caribbean community to discuss Haiti.

We are moving in the direction of forward-looking greenhouse technologies and climate-smart agriculture, with the built-in advantage of being sustainable and carbon negative, said Chester Cooper, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Tourism, Investments & Aviation.

Cooper will represent the prime minister and lead a delegation including H.E. Winston Pinnock, Bahamas Ambassador to the UN Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), to the two-day conference under the theme, Transforming Agriculture through Innovation and Investment.

Our particular focus is on our islands of Andros, Grand Bahama, Abaco, and Eleuthera where the bulk of arable land is available for agricultural development, said Cooper, who will also serve as acting Minister of Agriculture.

In underscoring the Governments intent to bolster food security, Cooper added that one of the goals is to develop a chemical-free $430 million AGRIHAVEN in Grand Bahama with cutting-edge technology and infrastructure to become a major wholesale food producer for the region.

Currently, The Bahamas imports over 90 percent of its food, which translates into approximately $1 billion in spending.

The CARICOM Agri-Investment Forum and Expo was established as a hub for Caribbean member states to network with stakeholders and investors. The inaugural expo took place in Guyana in May of this year. This second installment is focused on food and nutrition, agriculture, finance and marketing, trade and investment, and innovation and technology. The forum is strategically designed to facilitate CARICOM member states in achieving the 25 percent by 2025 vision of reducing regional food imports by increasing targeted investments in the agricultural sector regionally.

See the article here:

Cooper leads delegation to CARICOM Agri-Investment Forum and Expo II - EyeWitness News

NASSAU, BAHAMAS The National Insurance Board (NIB) and Public Managers Union (PMU) signed off on a five-year industrial agreement yesterday which addressed issues such as promotions, salary increases, performance evaluation, and training.

Public Managers Union president F Cassandra Cartwright-Lewis said yesterday that it was a long, tumultuous and at times very daunting task to reach the finalization of the agreement.

We have come a long way, said Cartwright-Lewis.

I do hope that moving forward our industrial agreements will not take as long as it has and I do anticipate that in the future, all parties would recognize that without the employees of the National Insurance Board the Board is unable to provide the necessary services. It is important we ensure that people are properly compensated for the services that they provide, she added.

Cartwright-Lewis said that the union recognizes the challenges that the Board is confronted with. We must be mindful that in order for this to work there has to be a partnership as we look to improve the services of NIB and address other challenges NIB faces. It has to be a partnership with staff members, executives, and the Board.

NIB Chairman Philip McKenzie said: It is safe to say that neither party got all that they asked for but equally safe to say that the interests of the employees of the Board and the delivery of services to the public were paramount considerations to both sides.

Myles Laroda, Minister of State in the Office of the Prime Minister with responsibility for NIB said that the agreement was a major feat considering that the initial process commenced in June of 2020 amidst challenges and the impact of a global pandemic.

Official negotiations commenced on January 18, 2021. The agreement is for five years commencing January 1st 2020 to December 31st 2024 and addresses some 14 financial articles, including promotions, salary increases, performance evaluations, training as well as health and safety.

Excerpt from:

AT LAST: NIB and Public Managers Union sign off on five year industrial agreement - EyeWitness News

NASSAU, BAHAMAS The process to kick-start the redevelopment of the North Eleuthera airport is expected to commence in the coming months, it was noted yesterday.

During an Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) virtual procurement fair yesterday, Charlene Collie, project coordinator of the airport infrastructure program said: We have two processes upcoming in the next six months, with expected contract signature dates of August 2023 for an estimated budget of $35 million. Associated with the north Eleuthera international airport landside works we will be seeking prequalification of contractors. The scope of works includes the construction of a new air terminal building and combined services building with associated civil works.

Collie noted that also being advertised in the month of September is the airside works at the North Eleuthera Airport with an expected contract signing in September 2023. The part of the project has an estimated budget of $30 million and will include the construction of a new parallel runway, apron, and refurbishment of the existing runway to be used as a taxiway. We are excited about these upcoming processes as we look to begin work on the North Eleuthera airport.

Collie also noted that under the airport infrastructure program work is ongoing on the Exuma International Airport, with minor work being carried out at the Marsh Harbor and Treasure Cay airports.

Excerpt from:

North Eleuthera Airport redevelopment process to kick-start in the coming months - EyeWitness News

The Bahamas Islands - Discover 16 Unique Island Destinations '+ '

'+ 'Children'+ ''+ '0'+ '1'+ '2'+ '3'+ ''+ '

n' + ' Children agen' + ' n' + ' Children Age' + ' n' + ' 0n' + ' n' + ' 1n' + ' n' + ' 2n' + ' n' + ' 3n' + ' n' + ' 4n' + ' n' + ' 5n' + ' n' + ' 6n' + ' n' + ' 7n' + ' n' + ' 8n' + ' n' + ' 9n' + ' n' + ' 10n' + ' n' + ' 11n' + ' n' + ' 12n' + ' n' + ' 13n' + ' n' + ' 14n' + ' n' + ' 15n' + ' n' + ' 16n' + ' n' + ' 17n' + ' n' + ' n' + '

n' + ' Children agen' + ' n' + ' Children Age' + ' n' + ' 0n' + ' n' + ' 1n' + ' n' + ' 2n' + ' n' + ' 3n' + ' n' + ' 4n' + ' n' + ' 5n' + ' n' + ' 6n' + ' n' + ' 7n' + ' n' + ' 8n' + ' n' + ' 9n' + ' n' + ' 10n' + ' n' + ' 11n' + ' n' + ' 12n' + ' n' + ' 13n' + ' n' + ' 14n' + ' n' + ' 15n' + ' n' + ' 16n' + ' n' + ' 17n' + ' n' + ' n' + '

n' + ' Children agen' + ' n' + ' Children Age' + ' n' + ' 0n' + ' n' + ' 1n' + ' n' + ' 2n' + ' n' + ' 3n' + ' n' + ' 4n' + ' n' + ' 5n' + ' n' + ' 6n' + ' n' + ' 7n' + ' n' + ' 8n' + ' n' + ' 9n' + ' n' + ' 10n' + ' n' + ' 11n' + ' n' + ' 12n' + ' n' + ' 13n' + ' n' + ' 14n' + ' n' + ' 15n' + ' n' + ' 16n' + ' n' + ' 17n' + ' n' + ' n' + '

'; $(this).find("option").each(function() { template += '' + $(this).html() + ''; }); template += '

Select any one of our 16 islands and start exploring. Let the adventure begin.

Click to select the island you would like to explore in The Bahamas

Experience the boating capital of The Bahamas in the one-of-a-kind island chain known as The Abacos. Sailing, fishing, award-winning golf, and quaint colonial island towns are all waiting to be discovered in this sun-drenched destination in the northern Bahamas.

TCB | Treasure Cay International Airport

MHH | Leonard M. Thompson Airport

YAS | Sandy Point Airport

Acklins and Crooked Island offer a stunningly secluded getaway by a shimmering lagoon. From bonefishing and birdwatching to exploring the serene island town of Long Cay, this destination is a hallmark of undisturbed Out Islands charm.

AXP | Spring Point Airport

PWN | Pitts Town Point Airport

CRI | Crooked Hill Airport

Journey to the largest island in the Bahamas and explore natural wonders like no other. Left virtually untouched, Andros is home to breathtaking blue holes, coral reefs, underwater wrecks, national forests, and more.

ASD | Andros Town International Airport

SAQ | San Andros Airport

TZN | South Andros

Bordered by the Tongue of the Ocean, The Berry Islands are home to some of the most diverse and abundant sea life in The Bahamas. This unique marine destination comprises nearly 30 idyllic cays, most of which are uninhabited.

GHC | Great Harbour Cay Airport

CCZ | Chub Cay International Airport

World-class fishing, thrilling dives, and island adventure await on the storied island of Bimini. From diving with sharks and visiting shipwrecks to pursuing the prized blue marlin at sea, Bimini offers memorable experiences for intrepid travellers.

BIM | South Bimini Airport

NSB | North Bimini Airport

Surfing, kiteboarding, hikes through tropical landscapes to the highest point in The Bahamasyou might be surprised at what you find in quiet Cat Island. From historical sites to watersports and beachside bars, theres no shortage of things to do and see along the pink sands.

Discover colourful New England-style architecture, astounding natural beauty, and pristine clusters of sandbars and cays on these two picturesque Bahamas hideawayseach is unique and not to be missed.

GHB | Governors Harbour Airport

ELH | North Eleuthera Airport

From untouched beaches and breathtaking resorts to the famous swimming pigs, The Exumas is where the beauty of the Bahamas meets unforgettable adventure. Make memories like no other among crystal clear waters and four-legged friends.

GGT | Exuma International Airport

TYM|Staniel Cay Airport

Freeport Grand Bahama Island is a bustling paradise of island activities and fun in the sun. Experience the thrill of kayaking through mangroves, exploring underwater caves, off-roading through pine forests, and much more.

FPO | Grand Bahama International Airport

Those with a passion for birdwatching look no further than the island of Inagua. Situated in the southernmost part of The Bahamas, Inagua is home to three national parks serving as habitats for over 80,000 flamingos and 140 other species of birds.

IGA | Inagua International Airport

The shores of Long Island boast world-class bonefishing, thrilling encounters with marine life and thriving reefs, and the worlds second deepest blue hole. While adventure fills the waters, on land, life is tranquil and serene.

SML | Stella Maris Airport

LGI | Deadmans Cay Airport

An isolated and secluded escape, Mayaguana is an outdoor-lovers destination. Whether its a footprint-free beach or a far-off fishing spot, the island is the perfect blend of solitude and charm.

No other capital city boasts paradise as its neighbor. While Nassau promises big city thrills, nearby Paradise Island offers miles of natural wonder. Immerse yourself in an island experience that delivers the best of both worlds.

NAS | Lynden Pindling International Airport

Beyond the shorelines of Ragged Island, anglers will find remarkable deep-sea fishing. Bonefish, barracuda, tuna, and kingfish are just a few of the more common catches around the island, while the quaint settlement of Duncan Town is a quintessential island escape.

DCT | Duncan Town Airport

This hidden treasure of a destination boasts ancient Lucayan art, sprawling white sand beaches, thrilling dive siteseven a secret surf spot. A short boat ride away, Conception Island is perhaps one of the most well-preserved areas in The Bahamas.

RCY | Port Nelson Airport

San Salvador may be one of the smallest islands in The Bahamas, but it stands out amongst the larger destinations. Historic monuments, scenic lakes, tranquil beaches, and natural parks abound.

ZSA | San Salvador Airport

Travel Requirements

close

Stay Connected

First Name

Last Name

CountryCountryUnited StatesCanadaUnited KingdomAfghanistanland IslandsAlbaniaAlgeriaAmerican SamoaAndorraAngolaAnguillaAntarcticaAntigua and BarbudaArgentinaArmeniaArubaAustraliaAustriaAzerbaijanBahamasBahrainBangladeshBarbadosBelarusBelgiumBelizeBeninBermudaBhutanBolivia, Plurinational State ofBonaire, Sint Eustatius and SabaBosnia and HerzegovinaBotswanaBouvet IslandBrazilBritish Indian Ocean TerritoryBrunei DarussalamBulgariaBurkina FasoBurundiCambodiaCameroonCape VerdeCayman IslandsCentral African RepublicChadChileChinaChristmas IslandCocos (Keeling) IslandsColombiaComorosCongoCongo, the Democratic Republic of theCook IslandsCosta RicaCte d'IvoireCroatiaCubaCuraaoCyprusCzech RepublicDenmarkDjiboutiDominicaDominican RepublicEcuadorEgyptEl SalvadorEquatorial GuineaEritreaEstoniaEthiopiaFalkland Islands (Malvinas)Faroe IslandsFijiFinlandFranceFrench GuianaFrench PolynesiaFrench Southern TerritoriesGabonGambiaGeorgiaGermanyGhanaGibraltarGreeceGreenlandGrenadaGuadeloupeGuamGuatemalaGuernseyGuineaGuinea-BissauGuyanaHaitiHeard Island and McDonald IslandsHoly See (Vatican City State)HondurasHong KongHungaryIcelandIndiaIndonesiaIran, Islamic Republic ofIraqIrelandIsle of ManIsraelItalyJamaicaJapanJerseyJordanKazakhstanKenyaKiribatiKorea, Democratic People's Republic ofKorea, Republic ofKuwaitKyrgyzstanLao People's Democratic RepublicLatviaLebanonLesothoLiberiaLibyaLiechtensteinLithuaniaLuxembourgMacaoMacedonia, the former Yugoslav Republic ofMadagascarMalawiMalaysiaMaldivesMaliMaltaMarshall IslandsMartiniqueMauritaniaMauritiusMayotteMexicoMicronesia, Federated States ofMoldova, Republic ofMonacoMongoliaMontenegroMontserratMoroccoMozambiqueMyanmarNamibiaNauruNepalNetherlandsNew CaledoniaNew ZealandNicaraguaNigerNigeriaNiueNorfolk IslandNorthern Mariana IslandsNorwayOmanPakistanPalauPalestinian Territory, OccupiedPanamaPapua New GuineaParaguayPeruPhilippinesPitcairnPolandPortugalPuerto RicoQatarRunionRomaniaRussian FederationRwandaSaint BarthlemySaint Helena, Ascension and Tristan da CunhaSaint Kitts and NevisSaint LuciaSaint Martin (French part)Saint Pierre and MiquelonSaint Vincent and the GrenadinesSamoaSan MarinoSao Tome and PrincipeSaudi ArabiaSenegalSerbiaSeychellesSierra LeoneSingaporeSint Maarten (Dutch part)SlovakiaSloveniaSolomon IslandsSomaliaSouth AfricaSouth Georgia and the South Sandwich IslandsSouth SudanSpainSri LankaSudanSurinameSvalbard and Jan MayenSwazilandSwedenSwitzerlandSyrian Arab RepublicTaiwan, Province of ChinaTajikistanTanzania, United Republic ofThailandTimor-LesteTogoTokelauTongaTrinidad and TobagoTunisiaTurkeyTurkmenistanTurks and Caicos IslandsTuvalu>UgandaUkraineUnited Arab Emirates>United States Minor Outlying Islands>UruguayUzbekistanVanuatuVenezuela, Bolivarian Republic ofViet NamVirgin Islands, BritishVirgin Islands, U.S.Wallis and FutunaWestern SaharaYemenZambiaZimbabwe

Email Address

No Thank you

Link:

The Bahamas Islands - Discover 16 Unique Island Destinations

With its turquoise waters, pillowy sand beaches and laid-back island attitude, everything really does seem better in The Bahamas.

With 16 major islands and 100,000 sq mi of some of the worlds clearest water, theres no shortage of island adventuring to be had whether its hitting the waves for a snorkeling expedition or unwinding with a frosty rum-laden beverage in hand.

If youre a water sports enthusiast, The Bahamas is a great destination for indulging in your passion. Snorkeling and scuba diving adventures await, with deserted islands and intimate coves providing an undisturbed peek at the marine life enjoying the warm, clear waters that surround the islands.

But if youd prefer to keep your itinerary close to shore, theres plenty to explore there as well. Need proof? Heres a list of the top things to do while in The Bahamas.

The 40-acre Lucayan National Park is one of the largest underwater cave systems in the world, two of which are open to the public for swimming and exploration. Located east of Freeport over on Grand Bahama Island, Lucayan is an ecological treasure, playing host to all six of Bahamas vegetation zones.

Before cooling off in the caves waters, walk or ride a horse along one of the park's paved paths and experience its mangrove swamps, rocky coppice landscape and singular hardwood forest.

Sharpen your negotiating skills and snag a few locally-made souvenirs at Nassaus frenzied Straw Market, located next to the tony boutique shops on Bay Street. Youll find vendors with individual stalls hawking all manner of wares, from straw purses and wood carvings, to touristy tees and hats.

Haggling isnt just acceptable in this open-air market, its encouraged. The Straw Market is open seven days a week from 8am to 8pm.

Who says careening down waterslides at breakneck speeds and giddily screaming the whole way through is strictly for kids? The Aquaventure attraction at Atlantis Paradise Island offers 141 acres of high speed water slides, winding lazy rivers and 11 swimming pools set amongst the ruins of Atlantis. Access to Atlantis is free for overnight guests of the resort, but you can pick up a day pass if youre staying elsewhere.

Atlantis isnt the only attraction on Paradise Island walk around to the east side of the island and youll discover the public entrance to Cabbage Beach, a two-mile stretch of pristine sand framed by swaying palm trees.

If the waters are a bit choppy, seek out one of the beachside huts where youll find a masseuse waiting to administer a muscle-melting massage set to the crashing waves of the ocean beyond.

Top 14 beaches The Bahamas

No, your eyes havent been taken over by an Instagram filter the sand on Pink Sands Beach in Harbour Island is indeed pink. The rosy pink hue is courtesy of microscopic coral insects with bright pink and red shells.

In a slightly grim twist, the waves crush their shells and mix the remains with the sand and coral on shore, creating the soft pink hue. The sand here is almost always cool, making the three-mile stretch of beach perfect for daytime strolls or sunbathing.

If you havent guzzled a daiquiri or three, did you really visit The Bahamas? Avoid falling victim to that question and get yourself to the Daiquiri (Daq) Shack, an open-air wooden hut known for its boozy blended concoctions using fresh tropical fruits and healthy pours of rum.

The island has many pretenders to the throne, but the original is located on Cable Beach. Look for the one with all of the visitor photos and business cards stapled to the walls and then after tipping your bartender, add one of your own.

When is the best time to go to The Bahamas

A former pirate hangout and playground for the rich and (in)famous, the luxuriously ornate grounds of the Graycliff Hotel have courted all manner of interesting characters for nearly 300 years.

While best known for their cigars, the mansion also houses one of the worlds largest wine cellars, and yes, a five-star restaurant. Think: high-end takes on traditional Bahamian cuisine. But make sure to call ahead for reservations the restaurant tends to be fully booked weeks in advance.

After youve checked the daiquiri off your Bahamas bingo card, your next stop is conch. Fried or fresh, the most popular spot to grab the islands unofficial dish is at the Fish Fry in Nassau. The collection of wooden shacks house individual vendors hawking fried and fresh conch along with Bahamian staples like plantains and rice.

The Fish Fry is open seven days a week, but its Friday and Saturday nights that invite a party-like atmosphere fueled by rum-spiked drinks and music.

The Cricket Club is where British ex-pats get their fill of Premier League Football, pints of Guinness and plates of Yorkshire pudding (along with a legit bangers and mash). Post up at one of the tables on the upper-level balcony and watch a cricket match on the pitch below. The balmy Caribbean breezes and ice-cold beer are just the things to take the edge off a sizzling tropical day.

Whats a visit to a Caribbean island without a bit of rum? John Watlings Distillery has been producing the sugar cane molasses-based liquor since 2003. The distillery uses coconuts to filter their juice, which might seem tropically gimmicky on the outset, but actually does the job.

Situated on the lush two-acre Buena Vista Estate, the distillery is open seven days a week for tours and tastings dont forget to pick up a half gallon of one of their estate cocktails to go.

Do you need a visa to go to The Bahamas?

While The Bahamas has plenty of natural beauty to keep you entertained, the island archipelago also has a decidedly glitzy side, and its on full display at the Baha Mar complex in Nassau.

Comprising the SLS, Grand Hyatt, and Rosewood resorts, the Baha Mar Casino ties all the properties together and can add largest casino in the Caribbean to its resume. Join the well-heeled crowd with a good-luck cocktail before hitting up one of the 119 live table games, 1,000 slot machines or placing a bet on a televised live sports game.

Thunderball Grotto is an underwater cave system best known for its star-turn in a James Bond movie. Located just west of Staniel Cay, the craggy aquamarine pool is perfect for a day of diving, swimming and snorkeling while channeling your inner international spy even if for just a few minutes.

Only a short 30-minute boat ride from Nassau, Rose Island is home to Sandy Toes, the quintessential Bahamian beach bar. Located on the shores of a secluded tropical island, you can opt to spend the day snorkeling in the surrounding crystal clear waters or romping around with the islands nine resident pigs (if thats something that interests you).

Afterwards, grab a frozen daiquiri from the bar and kick back in one of the islands rope hammocks.

Time to put your mask and fins to good use the barrier reef on Andros Island is the third-largest on the planet and offers a one-of-kind peek at the colorful array of marine life that inhabits the Caribbean waters. Known as the Big Yard, Andros is largely unpopulated, allowing much of the natural Bahamian terrain to remain wild and undisturbed.

But its the 190-mile barrier reef that steals the show, with its submerged shipwrecks, underwater blue holes, and schools of parrotfish, speckled scorpionfish, and blue tangs.

You might also like:

The top 5 road trips in The BahamasHow to choose an island in The BahamasWhy Long Island should be your next Bahamas vacation

Read the original post:

The 14 Best Things to do in The Bahamas - Lonely Planet

A trove of treasure has been discovered in the shipwreck of the 17th century Nuestra Seora de las Maravillas (Our Lady of Wonders) in the Bahamas.

The glittering finds include solid silver bars, a 5-foot, 9-inch long gold chain, in-tact pottery, a gold and emerald pendant, a pearl ring, two glass wine bottles, and a silver sword hilt of the soldier Don Martin de Aranda y Gusmn.

The finds are about to go on display at the new Bahamas Maritime Museum, created by the Government of the Bahamas, and Carl Allen, entrepreneur, explorer, philanthropist, and the founder of Allen Exploration, whose team uncovered the finds.

"When we brought up the oval emerald and gold pendant, my breath caught in my throat. How these tiny pendants survived in these harsh waters, and how we managed to find them, is the miracle of the Maravillas," Allen said in a press release sent to Insider.

Allen Explorations discovered the treasures sttrewn along an eight-mile stretch of the ocean floor.

In the statement, Allen spoke of the "tough history" of the shipwreck, saying it had been "heavily salvaged by Spanish, English, French, Dutch, Bahamian and American expeditions in the 17th and 18th centuries, and blitzed by salvors from the 1970s to early 1990s. Some say the remains were ground to dust."

He also added that "The sea bottom is barren," that "the colorful coral that divers remembered from the 70s is gone, poisoned by ocean acidification and choked by meters of shifting sand. It's painfully sad. Still lying on those dead grey reefs, though, are sparkling finds."

"The ship may have been obliterated by past salvage and hurricanes. But we're convinced there are more stories out there," project marine archaeologist James Sinclair said.

The new Bahamas Maritime Museum will open on August 8.

"For a nation built from the ocean, it's astonishing how little is understood about The Bahamas' maritime links," Dr. Michael Pateman, Director of The Bahamas Maritime Museum, said in the press release.

"Few know that the Indigenous Lucayan peoples, for instance, settled here 1,300 years ago. Or that the whole population, up to 50,000 people was forced out by Spanish guns, made to dive for pearls off Venezuela, and killed off in less than three decades. There was dazzling Old World culture in The Bahamas. The Lucayans, slave trade, pirates, and the Maravillas are core stories we're sharing in the museum."

According to the Bahamas Maritime Museum, the 17th century Nuestra Seora de las Maravillas was a two-deck Spanish galleon that sank on a voyage from the Americas to Spain carrying treasures, both as royal tax and private property.

The ship sank off the Little Bahama Bank on January 4, 1656, after a navigational error. Of the 650 on board, only 45 survived.

The wreck was quickly relocated after the ship sank, and for centuries people have tried their luck to find some of the sunken riches.

Explorer Robert Marx rediscovered the remains in 1972, and salvaged some of what was left. Further remains were salvaged by Herbert Humphreys between 1986 and the early 1990s

See more here:

Bahamas: 17th century shipwreck gives up treasure of gold and jewels - Business Insider

In 2013, a group of 52 Atlantic spotted dolphins, driven to migrate by unknown forces, left their home on the Little Bahama Bank in the northern Bahamas. They traveled 100 miles south to the island chain of Bimini, a destination already inhabited by a community of 120 Atlantic spotted dolphins.

When groups of social mammals meet, things can get tense. Run-ins between chimpanzee communities, for instance, are known for their violence. Adult male mammals, especially, are keen to defend territory and access to females.

But for the Atlantic spotted dolphins of Little Bahama Bank and Bimini, the mixing and mingling seems to have gone rather swimmingly, scientists found.

Two teams of researchers published papers recently about the growing dolphin community. Their analyses, unlike the dolphins, were not blended, and offered independent confirmation that dolphins from different groups formed strong bonds in a short time frame. The rare event provides new clues about how these brainy mammals organize their complex societies, and may help predict what may occur if climate change pushes populations together.

Denise Herzing, a marine mammal behavioral biologist at the nonprofit Wild Dolphin Project, and her colleagues watched dolphins on the Little Bahama Bank for almost 30 years and started tracking the 52 dolphins when they left.

We were curious how they were integrating, she said. Its a kind of a natural experiment.

Another team, the Dolphin Communication Project, observed dolphins at Bimini for 20 years. All of a sudden we were seeing so many adults that we didnt know, said Nicole Danaher-Garcia, a behavioral ecologist with the group. She was referring to the dolphins, not the other dolphin researchers, of course.

The aquatic mammals often spend their whole lives forming close bonds within their home group, Dr. Danaher-Garcia said. But at Bimini, they were forming new friendships with strangers in only a year.

Dr. Danaher-Garcias team tracked which dolphins spent time together from 2013 to 2018 and analyzed how individual animals touched each other. A lot of times youll see them rubbing their pectoral fins against one another. It kind of looks like theyre playing patty-cake, she said. A dolphin may rub its forehead on a pals belly, indicating an even stronger bond. You must like them, she said, and if theyre allowing you to do it, they must trust you. Such friendly gestures were common between males from the different groups, the team reported this week in the journal Royal Society Open Science.

The team didnt observe aggression between the newcomers and the original Bimini crew, the kind of conflict often seen in nature when mammal groups merge.

Thats very unusual, Dr. Danaher-Garcia said. Instead, her team saw the animals socializing, playing and getting frisky across original group lines, behavior more akin to that of bonobos.

She said it was possible that like bonobos, they use sexual behaviors to ease the tension. At times, this bacchanal can look like a ball of dolphins. You cant really tell whos touching whom and whats going on, she said.

Like both bonobos and chimpanzees, dolphins live in fission-fusion societies where they make strong bonds between individuals but can break those bonds and forge new ones. This kind of bonding between individuals in different groups is not seen among many mammals, said Diana Reiss, a marine mammal scientist and cognitive psychologist at Hunter College who was not part of either study. To see such social flexibility within groups that didnt previously live together is pretty exciting, Dr. Reiss said.

Dr. Danaher-Garcias team suspects Biminis geography, with ample shallows as well as abundant access to deep water for foraging, makes for more amiable interactions because the dolphins likely dont need to fight over space.

But that doesnt mean it was all frictionless. Dr. Herzings group did see some aggressive behaviors, such as dolphins slapping or ramming heads, that are typical when males fight over mating opportunities. Her group mapped the cetaceans associations from 2015 to 2020 and reported the results last week in the journal Marine Mammal Science. But the fighting that Dr. Herzings team observed is not unusual and can occur within a single group of dolphins.

Dr. Herzings group has yet to publish its analysis of the types of touches that occurred in the newly mixed group. That team stayed on a boat further offshore observing the dolphins over longer days during the summer. In contrast, Dr. Danaher-Garcias project had a limited sample size that was more focused on males, as opposed to males and females, Dr. Herzing said, and might have missed some aggressive encounters.

They probably didnt see aggression, probably because there was nothing to fight over, she added.

There may also be a difference in how the two studies classify what counts as aggression, Dr. Herzing and Dr. Danaher-Garcia noted.

More research is needed to determine if the mixed dolphin groups are becoming more enmeshed through mating. The Wild Dolphin Project, Dr. Herzings team, is getting the scoop on this by collecting dolphin feces and analyzing the genetic material they contain to reveal the dolphins parentage.

Guido J. Parra, a behavioral ecologist at Flinders University who wasnt involved with either study, said there was value in researching these interactions. An understanding of social ties could help reveal how animal groups might respond to environmental change and aid in conservation. Researchers still have a lot to learn about the ecological factors that drive grouping, the role of individuals in shaping a social structure and the costs and benefits of banding together, Dr. Parra said.

That will be important as different dolphin populations may be pushed together. For example, in Bangladesh, rising seas encroached on a land boundary and brought river dolphins into contact with another dolphin species in the ocean, Dr. Herzing said.

We dont know exactly how species are going to fare she said.

Go here to see the original:

Dolphin Strangers Met in the Bahamas. Things Went Swimmingly. - The New York Times

Use your (arrows) to browse

The Ohio State basketball team has had a pretty enjoyable week so far this week. Chris Holtmann and the rest of the coaching staff has been doing an excellent job landing recruits for the 2023 recruiting class. Now, the current Buckeye basketball team is in the Bahamas this weekend for a team vacation.

While in the Bahamas they will play in a pair of exhibition games against the Egyptian and Puerto Rican national teams. These exhibition games will be the first piece of action for this rebuilt Buckeye roster.

Chris Holtmann did announce that Justice Sueing and Seth Towns will not play in their exhibition games as they are still trying to get 100% healthy. With those two being out, that means this weekend will be a great opportunity to mix and match some different lineups and see who all plays well with each other.

There are a lot of uncertainties around this Ohio State basketball team heading into the 2022 season. We are going to learn a lot about this team while on their trip to the Bahamas. What are some of the things that we hope to find out about this team after this week of Buckeye basketball?

Use your (arrows) to browse

Read the original:

What we hope to learn about the Ohio State basketball team during Bahamas trip - Scarlet and Game

NASSAU, Bahamas, Aug. 2, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Summertime festivities are in full swing in The Bahamas, where a variety of all-new experiences, celebrity performances and lively events across the islands await. Travelers should make sure to check out the many fun summer happenings and hot deals before planning their next trip to The Bahamas.

NEWSLynden Pindling International Airport Reports Strong Tourism Numbers This Summer With preliminary passenger numbers for summer stronger than what they were pre-pandemic in 2019, and in anticipation of busier months ahead, Nassau's Lynden Pindling International Airport encourages travellers to arrive 3 to 3.5 hours ahead of their international flight's scheduled departure time.

Check out the many fun summer happenings and hot deals before planning your next trip to The Bahamas!

Celebrate Bahamian Culture During the Goombay Summer FestivalsThe Bahamas' annual Goombay Summer Festivals will take place across 12 islandsincluding Andros, Long Island and Eleutherain August.

Go Glampingunder the Stars at Atlantis Paradise IslandAtlantis Paradise Island'snewMarine Life Camping Adventureallows guests to sleep in luxury tents at the beach while connecting with marine life on exclusive adventures like kayaking with dolphins andsnorkellingat twilight.

Celebrate Baha Mar's New Partnership with Bruno Mars' SelvaRey Rum Baha Mar will celebrate its new partnership with SelvaRey Rum, a new liquor brand owned by Bruno Mars, with a Labour Day weekend party at SLS Baha Mar from 1 4 September 2022. Tickets to see performances by Bruno Mars and Anderson .Paak are open for booking.

The Bahamas Is Listed In Travel + Leisure's 2022 "World's Best Awards" The Bahamas were well represented in Travel + Leisure's 2022 "World's Best Awards" with The Exumas, Harbour Island, and Eleuthera all making it onto the list of "25 Best Islands in the Caribbean, Bermuda and The Bahamas."

The Hurricane Hole Superyacht Marina Reopens After a complete reconstruction, Hurricane Hole Superyacht Marina on Paradise Island has officially reopened, featuring over 6,000 feet of slips, concrete floating docks and a 240-foot turning basin able to accommodate the most luxurious superyachts.

PROMOTIONS AND OFFERSFor a complete list of deals and discounted packages for The Bahamas, visitwww.bahamas.com/deals-packages.

Stay More and Save More at Peace & Plenty Resort Peace & Plenty Resort in The Exumas is offering guests 15% off their stayfor bookings of five nights or more. The offer is valid for travel through 30 September 2022.

Explore Eleuthera with The Cove Eleuthera Newly renovated resort The Cove Eleuthera is offering guests who book a three-night minimum stay a unique package that allows them to immerse themselves into the beauty of the island. The package includes a guided half-day tour of the island, a $200 resort credit and a chef-packed picnic lunch for two. Room rates apply.

ABOUT THE BAHAMASExplore all the islands have to offer atwww.bahamas.com or onFacebook,YouTube orInstagram to see why It's Better in The Bahamas.

PRESS INQUIRIESAnita Johnson-PattyBahamas Ministry of Tourism, Investments & Aviation[emailprotected]

Weber ShandwickPublic Relations[emailprotected]

SOURCE The Bahamas Ministry of Tourism, Investments & Aviation

See original here:

WHAT'S NEW IN THE BAHAMAS IN AUGUST - PR Newswire

NC State will lead college basketball in trips to the Bahamas this year with two. The Wolfpack will be down there for the Battle 4 Atlantis over Thanksgiving, and this weekend theyre heading down to play a couple of exhibition games.

Schools are allowed these summer trips every few years, though obviously its been a while since its been possible to take them. This is as good a time as any for the Pack to take advantage of extra practices and start getting this team full of newcomers more comfortable playing together.

Kevin Keatts met with the media to discuss the trip and some other things, including his squads injury situation. Unfortunately, Greg Gantt wont be able to play thanks to a finger injury which Keatts said is likely to keep the forward out for a month. Ernest Ross, meanwhile, is fully cleared to play but isnt quite 100% recovered from the ankle injury he suffered in January.

New big man Dusan Mahorcic wont be making the trip, though that doesnt appear to be injury-related.

The Wolfpack will play a team from the Bahamas as well as the Puerto Rican national team. Keatts isnt much worried about the results of those games as he is about just getting a feel for his groups strengths and weaknesses. Its a fact-finding mission, as he put it.

NC State will be in the Bahamas from the sixth until the 11th. I dont imagine there will be any way to watch the Pack play, short of being there in person.

See more here:

Kevin Keatts discusses NC States trip to the Bahamas - Backing The Pack