They will be using a thermal imaging camera to help spot Gibbs and Dolber who escaped from their pen on September 20.

Dolphin Quest spokesman Chris Heslop said: "If a dorsal fin comes above the water, we will be able to spot it.'' The equipment will be operated by Dr. Ann Pabst who has flown in from the University of North Carolina with the equipment.

Dolphin Quest's volunteers will also be boosted by a five-strong team from the Chicago Zoological Society.

They will be led by Dr. Randy Wells -- an expert in looking for wild dolphins.

Mr. Heslop explained: "They are very well versed in looking for dolphins.

They know how to set up a grid pattern to make sure the whole of the water is covered.

"We want to cover all of the Bermuda Plateau which goes out about nine miles.

Up until now we have just been covering the shoreline.'' Mr. Heslop said Dolphin Quest would be aiming to cover more water in its weekend blitz and he appealed for other volunteers to help out.

He said: "We need people on the shoreline and in boats. We're also going out with Skyrider again to get an aerial view of the water.'' Boat owners helping in the hunt may be able to get help with expenses if they contact Dolphin Quest.

If you can help Dolphin Quest call 239-6957.

SEA