Dolphins have been painted as smiling and playful creatures, but are they really safe to be with? Could dolphins possibly be dangerous?
Dolphins: Intelligent Marine Mammals
These marine mammals are remarkably intelligent. They also love to do acrobatic moves and interact with other animals and even humans.
These creatures are also social by nature. They dwell in groups known as pods. These creatures communicate with each other with an interesting system of whistles, body language, and clicks.
While these creatures do have a friendly nature, it is important to note that they are still wild animals that should be handled with care and respected. Generally, it is not advisable to go near or touch wild dolphins that are in their natural habitats or environments. This may stress them out and disrupt their normal behavior.
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Dolphin Dangers?
The answer to whether dolphins are safe or dangerous creatures is not quite straightforward. Though they are generally considered to not be dangerous, there are cases where dolphin attacks on humans have occurred. However, it is important to note that the majority of dolphin attacks take place when the animals are agitated or provoked by humans. Though these attacks do happen, they are rare.
In 2019, a dolphin bit a woman as the woman swimming in Hawaii. The dolphin attack led to internal injuries, including broken ribs, spinal fractures, and lung damages.
There are cases where dolphins make use of their tails as part of a defense mechanism. This may lead to blunt-force trauma.
There were also times where dolphin attacks focused on boats. Dolphins have also been observed to have territorial interactions with humans. However, such cases are quite rares and usually result from interactions of humans with the animals in their natural environment.
Some reasons why dolphins attack humans include the feeling of being agitated or threatened by the presence of humans and the protection of their young.
Is It Safe to Swim With Dolphins?
Swimming with dolphins has become a popular recreational and leisure activity. This activity allows humans to get near thise marine creatures and have a personal interaction with them.
However, it is important to note that these creatures are wild creatures that could be unpredictable at times. While they could appear friendly, they may turn aggressive when they are provoked or feel threatened.
It is important to only swim with dolphins in a controlled environment. This could be with a reputable tour company or at a dolphin sanctuary.
While doing so, it is also important to maintain a safe distance with the dolphins. It is also advisable to avoid touching the creatures, as this could lead to stress and harm for them.
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