Dolphins learn how to use tools to hunt for fish from their mothers
Tool use among non-human animals is more widespread than you might think.
In a groundbreaking discovery, dolphins have been observed using seashells to aid in hunting for fish, a behavior that may be passed down through generations. This study, published in Marine Mammal Science, suggests that dolphins might be learning this tool use from their mothers. The research, conducted in Western Australia's Great Sandy Marine Park, reveals that two adult female dolphins were seen "shelling," a hunting technique where the dolphins chase fish into a shell and then manipulate it to drain the fish into their mouths.
The dolphins were not the first to be observed using this method - similar behavior was reported in Shark Bay, Western Australia, as far back as 2013. The researchers found that the mothers and calves in this population learned to shell in the same way, indicating that mothers play a crucial role in teaching their calves these innovative foraging techniques.
The calves, as young as minutes old, were seen picking up shells from their mothers, displaying what appears to be maternal social transmission. This discovery challenges the notion of human exceptionalism in tool use and emphasizes the intelligence and adaptability of dolphins.
Written by urgent.news from The Conversation AU's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
