A single bottlenose dolphin in Tsuruga, Japan, is believed to be responsible for a series of attacks on swimmers in the area, with 48 people suffering dolphin bites in the past three years. The attacks, which involve a male dolphin acting on its own, are unusual for a highly social species that usually sticks together in pods. Researchers have identified the dolphin involved in the recent attacks based on injuries on its dorsal fin, indicating it may have become accustomed to interacting with people over the years.
Although the bites seem to be playful rather than aggressive, they can still cause injury due to the dolphin’s sharp teeth. Swimmers are now being warned to leave the water if they encounter a dolphin. Signs posted by the Wakasa-Mihama Tourist Association caution that while dolphins are usually calm, they can become aggressive if provoked and cause serious harm to humans.
Experts suggest that the isolated dolphin may be seeking social interaction with humans as a result of being separated from its normal dolphin society. Male bottlenose dolphins typically form strong bonds with each other, which can manifest in chasing, biting, and touching behaviors. When socially isolated, they may exhibit aggressive tendencies towards humans in an attempt to seek out social interaction.
It is important for the safety of both humans and the dolphin that proper precautions are taken to avoid further incidents and ensure that the animal is given the space it needs.
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