The study analysed 199 independent whale-dolphin interaction events involving 19 different species. These interactions spanned two decades and occurred across 17 countries
A humpback whale playing with a dolphin. PIC/COURTESY L Mazzuca
A new study, published in Discover Animals, shows interspecies interactions between dolphins and whales are frequent.
The study analysed 199 independent whale-dolphin interaction events involving 19 different species. These interactions spanned two decades and occurred across 17 countries. Each entry was carefully reviewed to identify the species involved, validate the interaction and categorise behaviours.
Based on videos analysed, dolphins initiated most interactions through bow riding, swimming in formation, or even touching whales. In more than one-quarter of the events, the whales responded in seemingly similar ways.
The study found that dolphins may seek out whales as companions for stimulation, play or even courtship-like behaviour. Meanwhile, certain whale species, particularly Humpbacks, may not only tolerate but also engage with dolphins in a social capacity.
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