- Dolphins assaulting swimmers in Japan: Could solitude be a factor?
Beach patrols in Wakasa Bay, a coastal area in western Japan, routinely scan the waters for signs of dolphins. These aquatic creatures are deterred by specialized gadgets emitting high-decibel sounds. Disturbing posters display dolphins with menacing grins and jagged teeth, cautioning beachgoers about these creatures being more foe than friend. For the past three years, Wakasa Bay has been in crisis, as reported by multiple news outlets including the New York Times.
Since 2022, at least 47 individuals have been injured in dolphin attacks, with several requiring hospitalization. The ongoing year has seen 16 confirmed cases of these agressive encounters (as of August 16). Authorities suspect that one dolphin may be responsible for this string of attacks.
A local resident shared an unsettling story with local media about a close encounter with a dolphin. This marine mammal swam near the shore, bit the man on his arm, and nearly dragged him underwater.
Scientists are working to understand the cause of this unusual behavior. Ryoichi Matsubara, the director of the Echizen Matsushima Aquarium located in the affected Fukui prefecture, has suggested to the New York Times that the culprit may be a "loner" bottlenose dolphin. This dolphin has been observed attempting to make physical contact with people, possibly displaying mating instincts.
According to Putu Mustika, a lecturer and marine scientist at James Cook University in Australia, dolphins can become aggressive during mating seasons. Their strength relative to humans can inadvertently lead to injuries.
However, alternative theories are being considered. The fact that some attacks have occurred near the shore raises question about the dolphin's solitary living habits. Dolphins naturally live in groups and staying isolated for an extended time can lead to unusual behavior, as observed by scientists.
Experts have long advised against attempting contact with dolphins. Such "friendly" behavior in wild animals is considered unnatural, Matsubara explained to the New York Times. "If it were a bear, people would retreat," he added. "Both dolphins and bears share dangerous levels of potential harm to humans."
Original article on RTL.de
The Japanese authorities have issued warnings to beachgoers in Wakasa Bay to maintain a safe distance from dolphins due to the recent attacks. The local community, including tourists, is predominantly Japanese, as Wakasa Bay is a popular destination in western Japan.
