Why are Dolphins so friendly with humans?

Just as dogs are known to be very friendly with humans, dolphins in the sea are also known for their cordial and friendly relationship with humans. This makes them different from other sea animals like sharks, whales etc. Why so? Here is why...

Intelligence:

Dolphins are highly intelligent animals. Their brains are large compared to their body size and they can solve problems, learn complex tasks and even communicate with variety of sounds and clicks. This intelligence makes them more capable of interacting with humans. Their intelligence helps them to understand human behaviour and communicate with us.

Social Nature:

Dolphins are social creatures that live in groups called pods. They enjoy interacting with each other and often play games within their pods. This social behaviour extends to humans. They are curious about us and often seek to engage. Their friendly nature is often seen when they approach boats, swim alongside surfers, or play in the waves.

Playfulness:

Dolphins are known for their playful behaviour. They are known for their acrobatics and playful interactions. They can involve jumping out of the water or riding waves. This playful nature draws people in and creates joyful experiences. When dolphins engage with humans, they can form bonds easily.

Curiosity:

Dolphins are naturally curious animals. They often explore their environment and are interested in new things, including humans. This curiosity can lead them to approach swimmers and boats to see what is happening.

Positive Interactions:

In many places around the world, humans feed them fish. This can create a strong connection between dolphins and humans, as they come to expect rewards from these interactions. Many people who swim with or observe dolphins report positive experiences.

Gentle Behaviour:

Dolphins are generally not aggressive toward humans. They often display gentle behaviour, which includes nudging or swimming close, making people feel safe and comfortable around them.

Rescue Stories:

Moreover, dolphins have been known to help humans in distress. There are numerous stories about dolphins rescuing swimmers from dangerous situations, such as strong currents or shark attacks. These heroic actions strengthen the belief that dolphins are friendly and want to help humans.

Cultural Representations: Dolphins are often portrayed positively in movies, books, and media, reinforcing the idea of them as friendly animals. This cultural portrayal shapes our perception and encourages people to seek out interactions with dolphins.