What is Monkey Mia?
Monkey Mia is a beach in Shark Bay, Western Australia, where wild bottlenose dolphins come close to shore to interact with people. Visits began in the 1960s.
Rangers run dolphin experiences each morning, when dolphins often swim into the shallows. A small number of selected visitors may be invited to help offer fish.
Feeding is strictly controlled to protect dolphin health. Only a few fish are given to certain females.
Research and reserve
Scientists have studied Monkey Mia's dolphins for decades. Monkey Mia is in the Shark Bay World Heritage Area.
Visitors also see pelicans, emus and turtles. Boat tours may spot dugongs.
Monkey Mia is about 850 kilometres north of Perth.
The Monkey Mia program has changed over the years to make sure the dolphins remain wild and healthy. In the early years, uncontrolled feeding harmed young dolphins, as mothers spent less time caring for calves. Today, only a few adult females take part, and they receive only a small portion of their daily food. A resort, campground and visitor centre are located beside the beach, and the town of Denham is about 25 kilometres away.
Did You Know?
Some Shark Bay dolphins use sponges to protect their snouts while foraging.