Drones have shown that gray dolphins don’t just do this for fun: it’s a trick to hitch a ride and conserve energy.
The playful behavior of dolphins, known as “bow-riding”has intrigued researchers for decades. The oldest theory, which has reigned supreme, suggested that dolphins do this just for… fun. But a new study brings us a refreshing perspective.
New research in December 3 in Scientific Reports admits that dolphins may be conserve energy by catching a ride while “surfing” the waves of ships, transforming the act into an efficient means of transport.
In any case, one explanation does not invalidate the other.
Dr. Dara Orbach, assistant professor of biology at Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi, explains that energy efficiency and pleasure are not mutually exclusive.
“Just because they’re getting a benefit in terms of transportation doesn’t preclude the possibility of another purpose, like fun,” he says. Dara OrbachAssistant Professor of Biology at Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi, at: The study’s findings suggest that bow riding may serve both practical and recreational purposes for dolphins, he explains.
To study this behavior, researchers used drones to observe gray dolphins (Lagenorhynchus obscurus) off the coast of New Zealand.
Following them as they moved between offshore feeding zones and coastal waters, the team collected images of their movements and breathing rates. The team analyzed drone footage to measure the dolphins’ breathing rates, pinpointing each time their spiracles opened and closed.
The results revealed that as the dolphins walked around the bow, their breathing rates often slowed, suggesting a reduction of energy effort. This fact supports the idea that dolphins use ship waves as a means of transport, saving energy they would otherwise spend swimming.
It is interesting to note that the type of wake created by a ship depends on its size, weight and speed, which influences how dolphins interact with it.
These interactions provide information about dolphin ecosystems and can inform maritime regulation to ensure their safety. For example, changing ship speeds in areas frequented by dolphins could minimize potentially disruptive interactions.
“Dolphins are vital bioindicators of their environment, and offer clues about the health of the ecosystem,” said Orbach.
“Understanding their behavior not only enriches our knowledge of marine life but also helps create regulations that protect these intelligent animals.”
