Newborn Dolphin Calf Swims Close With Parent Dolphins in Jeju

A heartwarming scene unfolded off the coast of Jeju Island, South Korea, where a newborn dolphin calf was captured swimming in close proximity to its presumed parents. The sighting occurred on the afternoon of May 5th, near Jocheon-eup, according to DocuJeju and the Jeju National University's Research Center for Whale and Marine Life Conservation.

Observations revealed the two adult dolphins, believed to be the parents, closely flanking the calf. They were seen actively assisting the young dolphin, which is still learning to swim, by lifting its body with their rostrums or heads to aid its breathing. This intimate level of care highlights the strong parental bond and the dolphins' instinct to protect their vulnerable offspring.

DocuJeju reported that the parent dolphins were also engaged in educating the calf, teaching it various skills necessary for survival, such as directional changes. While sightings of newborn calves swimming near their mothers have occurred before, this instance is particularly significant. It marks the first time such detailed observation has captured both parents swimming alongside the calf, providing coordinated care from both sides.

Director Oh Seung-mok of DocuJeju stated that efforts are underway to confirm the identity of the mother dolphin by obtaining her dorsal fin data through tracking activities, as it was not secured during the initial observation. This ongoing research aims to further understand the behavior and social dynamics of these marine mammals.

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We will confirm through tracking activities as we could not secure the dorsal fin of the mother dolphin who gave birth to the calf.