How to Read a Dolphin's Body Language

Have you ever wondered how dolphins communicate with one another? Humans frequently use hand gestures, and though dolphins have no hands, they've developed a similar body language using other body parts. It is also important to consider a dolphin's environment and position relative to other animals when attempting to understand its intent.

Instructions

1. Identify key elements in your surroundings. Keep in mind that a dolphin is not put off by the same circumstances that you are. For example, rainy conditions might bother you a great deal, but they mean little to an animal that spends its life submerged. On the flip side, a dolphin shouldn't be out of the water for more than a few minutes, as this could cause severe damage to its skin and internal organs. If you see a wild dolphin on land, assume that it is in trouble and contact the proper authorities as soon as possible.

2. Observe the animal's position in relation to others of its kind. Dolphins are very social animals; the only dolphin you are likely to see on its own is a male belonging to one of a few species. Like many animals who live in groups, dolphins have a distinct hierarchy. If you're lucky enough to visit an underwater viewing area at an aquarium, watch how individuals position themselves in relation to one another. If two or more are swimming in a tight, unified group, the animal who swims closest to the surface ranks highest. This could be due to any number of factors, including age, size and gender.

3. Observe the long, thin parallel markings that are present on their flanks. These cuts do not result from mistreatment but likely indicate dominance squabbles with other dolphins. They're called "rake marks" and are made with the teeth. Dolphins rarely face one another squarely unless one is issuing a challenge. Since their eyes are positioned on the sides of their faces, they cannot see well straight ahead and feel threatened by any animal that has purposely placed itself there. Two dolphins who get along well are more likely to swim side by side.

4. Observe body parts that are easily viewed, such as the mouth or tail. A dolphin who bares its teeth below water, especially if vocalizing simultaneously and/or facing another animal, may be pursuing prey or vying for dominance. Often dolphins communicate annoyance by slapping tail flukes or pectoral flippers on the surface of the water, called "chuffing." A dolphin who curves its entire body into an S-shape is putting on a display for the opposite sex.

Tips & Warnings

• The Marine Mammal Protection Act states that it is illegal to get within 100 meters of a wild dolphin in U.S. waters. This guide is to be used in aquarium environments and/or authorized animal rescue situations only. If you plan to travel outside the United States, consult local laws before interacting with wild dolphins.