Dolphin Behavior and Learning

In dolphin species, calves learn survival skills by mimicking their mothers. The most crucial skill is finding food, which involves using echolocation to detect prey. Dolphins also learn hydroplaning, a technique for catching fish at high speeds. Playing with food is a behavior that may establish trust or status among dolphins.

What is the primary way young dolphins learn to survive?

• By mimicking their mother

• By playing with other dolphins

• By hunting alone

• By exploring the ocean

What is the most crucial skill a dolphin mother teaches her calf?

• How to communicate

• How to find food

• How to swim fast

• How to jump high

How do dolphins use echolocation?

• By using their sense of smell

• By following the currents

• By sending sound waves to detect objects

• By using their eyes to see underwater

What is hydroplaning?

• Diving to the ocean floor

• Moving at high speeds in shallow waters

• Jumping out of the water

• Swimming in deep waters

Why is hydroplaning effective for dolphins?

• It keeps them warm

• It allows them to catch fish easily

• It helps them avoid predators

• It helps them communicate

What might be a reason dolphins play with their catch?

• To clean the fish

• To establish trust

• To scare away predators

• To practice hunting

What is a possible reason other dolphins don't grab the catch?

• They don't like the fish

• They are not hungry

• They want to avoid a fight

• They are afraid of the catcher

What is the final lesson a dolphin calf learns from its mother?

• How to swim fast

• How to play with food

• How to jump high

• How to find a mate

Why is playing with food beneficial for dolphins?

• It helps them swim faster

• It makes the food taste better

• It gives them status among peers

• It helps them digest better

What is a potential social benefit of playing with food for dolphins?

• It makes them more attractive

• It improves their swimming skills

• It helps them find more food

• It enhances their social status