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Is Respecting Wildlife Optional? (Especially Underwater)

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 Imagine trying to take a nap next to an airport runway — the roar of engines, the constant vibration, and the way the sound seems to burrow into your bones. Now imagine living like that—24/7. That’s what life is like for many marine animals, not beside an airport, but beneath our boats. Underwater Isn’t Silent The ocean, contrary to popular belief, isn’t quiet. Whales sing. Dolphins click. Fish grunt. Coral reefs crackle with the sounds of snapping shrimp. But then we arrive Jet skis. Motorboats. Commercial ships. Even snorkelers paddling above sound like thunder beneath the surface. The hum and rumble of engines, high-pitched sonar pings, and the steady churn of propellers don’t just disrupt a peaceful underwater scene—they drown out entire conversations. To a whale, our noise pollution can be the difference between finding a mate and losing their pod. To a reef fish, it’s like navigating a city blindfolded while someone blasts leaf blowers in every direction. Would Y...

How Can You Help Coral While Snorkeling in a Shallow Reef

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  Who Are You Standing On? Have you ever wondered who or what you might be stepping on when you walk into the ocean? Someone anxious to get into the ocean may say, “Look how shallow the water is. I can stand up if I have any problems while I am snorkeling. While it is comforting, it is not often thought about what, or who, they are standing on when they put their feet down. At the bottom is where the keiki (young) corals and other marine life live. 🎓 Snorkeling Without Training = Accidental Harm Scuba divers get training. Part of that training includes how to be respectful to marine life and do no harm. Regretfully, snorkelers generally do not get any training before they go out to explore unless they hire a guide. This lack of awareness can lead to broken and damaged corals and marine life harassment. With a little knowledge, you can make a big difference. So, how can you be a better snorkeler? 🚫 Don’t Step on the “Rocks” — They’re Alive If you rented your snorkel gear from a sh...