Five fascinating facts about dolphins

Dolphins have so many interesting sides to them that make them unique mammals. According to The Week, they are intelligent and love company, and these features make them likeable, especially to human beings. 

National Geographic says they are sociable mammals communicating with clicks, squeaks, and whistles. Another fact about dolphins that makes them similar to humans is that we can call them graceful when in water. 

In this article, we’ll look at five facts about these fascinating animals besides those we’ve mentioned. 

1. They have ways of identifying themselves

Like human beings have names that distinguish them from each other, dolphins use whistles to identify each other. It helps them to recognise their family, friends, loved ones, and even strangers. Interesting, right? The best part is that distance does not affect their ability to recognise each other. 

According to Discover Magazine, they create unique signature whistles inspired by community members, so there are no mixups or confusion.

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2. They sleep with one eye open

It’s a dangerous world ‘out there,’ and to stay safe, half of their brain is still active while they fall asleep. It’s safe to say that they can multitask like human beings, seeing as they can be on the lookout for predators and continue breathing.

However, Whale and Dolphin Conservation make an assertion about dolphins. They say humans are often unconscious in their sleep, but dolphins can’t relate. 

3. Sensitive skin 

A quick question. What is so special about dolphins’ skin? One would think that things would be any different since they live in water. Their skin is sensitive, and they enjoy the attention that comes with being caressed by people. That’s why they are often receptive and open to interacting with humans.

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4. They are playful

Have you seen videos on social media where dolphins interact with human beings? Other times, they act carefree in the water by jumping into the air or playing with objects like seaweed. 

They are the real definition of a ‘soft life’ characterized by comfort and enjoyment. It isn’t hard to assume this because they take a break and enjoy themselves. 

5. They have double stomachs

Another interesting thing to note about dolphins is that they are carnivores that eat fish – different kinds, octopuses, shrimps, jellyfish, etc. Unlike human beings, they don’t just have one stomach; they have two. One is for storing their meals, and the other is for digesting them. It helps them to manage what they eat and control their diet, especially when they wear their hunter hats. 

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