Dolphin bites have been reported at beaches in Fukui Prefecture, Japan, prompting warnings from the Japanese Coast Guard. While authorities advise caution, some experts believe these incidents could stem from a lonely dolphin seeking interaction rather than outright aggression.
A Series of Dolphin Bites in Fukui Prefecture
This summer has seen a rise in dolphin-related injuries in Japan, with 18 people reported injured in Fukui Prefecture. A single 8-foot-long Indo-Pacific bottlenose dolphin is suspected to be responsible for these incidents. The Japanese Coast Guard has issued warnings on social media, urging beachgoers to maintain a safe distance from dolphins and avoid feeding them.
Expert Opinion: A Lonely Dolphin Seeking Connection?
Tadamichi Morisaka, a dolphin ecologist at Mie University, suggests the bites could be a form of social interaction. He notes that gentle biting is a common behavior among male bottlenose dolphins in the wild, used to maintain relationships. Morisaka hypothesizes that the dolphin might perceive these interactions with humans as a form of friendship.
The injuries sustained so far have been relatively minor, mostly cuts requiring stitches. This lack of severe injuries further supports Morisaka’s theory that the dolphin is lonely and seeking interaction rather than intending to inflict harm. He points out that the dolphin’s biting force is significantly restrained compared to its potential strength.
Could the Dolphin’s Behavior Escalate?
While the current bites are relatively gentle, Morisaka warns that the dolphin’s behavior could become more aggressive if it attempts to establish dominance. This could lead to more serious injuries due to the dolphin’s size and strength.
Bottlenose dolphins possess up to 100 sharp conical teeth, capable of inflicting significant damage. While not as widely publicized as shark or orca attacks, dolphin aggression towards humans is not unheard of, with Japan experiencing several incidents in recent years. In 2023, at least six people were injured by dolphins in Japanese coastal waters, with one individual suffering broken ribs. Similar incidents occurred in 2022.
Dolphin Aggression: Not Limited to Wild Encounters
Aggression in dolphins isn’t confined to wild populations. In 2022, a trainer at Miami Seaquarium was attacked by a dolphin during a performance. In 2019, a 10-year-old girl was dragged underwater and bitten by captive dolphins in Mexico.
Dolphins: Wild Animals with Unpredictable Behavior
Despite their playful reputation and occasional stories of dolphins rescuing humans, it’s crucial to remember that they are wild animals with unpredictable behavior. While some may find this thrilling, maintaining a safe distance and appreciating these creatures from afar is generally recommended.
