Sea life surprises: Dolphins, manta rays and even whales spotted along Balearic shores

Unusual sightings are on the rise as marine experts look into what’s really happening beneath the surface

Visitors to the Balearic Islands this summer have been met with more than just sunshine and turquoise waters – they’ve also had some surprising encounters with marine life. From manta rays appearing in the shallows to pods of dolphins and even the occasional whale making a splash offshore, it's a sight many locals and tourists haven’t seen so often in years.

In recent weeks, several manta rays have been spotted unusually close to beaches across the Balearic archipelago. In some cases, they’ve become stranded on the shore. While rescue efforts have saved some of the animals, others haven’t survived. These sightings are out of the ordinary, as manta rays typically prefer deeper, open waters.

Experts are still working on a definitive explanation, but several theories are being considered. Some believe changes in water temperature or underwater noise pollution caused by heavy maritime traffic could be disorienting the animals. Others point to disturbances in the Earth's magnetic field or even illnesses affecting the rays’ ability to navigate.

Interestingly, similar behaviour has been seen elsewhere along the Spanish coast in recent months. A pod of dolphins was caught on camera frolicking in Murcia earlier this spring, and in June, a group of killer whales made headlines for battering a sailboat off the coast of Andalucía. In Ibiza, astonished beachgoers witnessed a fin whale cruising through the waters alongside a group of dolphins. All of this adds to the growing sense that something is changing in the marine ecosystem.

While rays are arriving in greater numbers, sharks appear to be on the decline. Environmental groups report sharp drops in sightings of several species native to Balearic waters, including the musola and the alitan. Overfishing and habitat degradation are thought to be the main reasons. Since sharks play a key role in maintaining healthy ecosystems, their dwindling presence could have wider knock-on effects.

Meanwhile, there’s a silver lining when it comes to dolphins and whales. Their increasing visibility is seen by many as a positive sign, possibly linked to cleaner waters, better protection zones, or more abundant food sources. Some also credit greater public awareness around pollution and sonar use for creating a safer habitat.

Together, these changes point to a broader ecological shift in the western Mediterranean. Whether it’s a warning sign or a recovery story depends on the species - but either way, scientists say it’s essential to study these patterns more closely and take steps to protect the region’s rich marine biodiversity.

If you spot a stranded animal, authorities urge you not to approach or handle it. Instead, call emergency services or the relevant marine rescue centre so trained professionals can intervene safely.

Image: Taryn Elliott/Pexels