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Video: Dolphin Carries Dead Calf in What Experts Call Mourning
The New York Times • • world
Key Points:
- A dolphin named Fraggle was filmed carrying the deceased body of her two-week-old calf off the coast south of Perth, Australia, highlighting a poignant moment of animal grief.
- The footage was shared by Geographe Marine Research, which has been monitoring Fraggle, who had previously lost three calves and faced challenges with this fourth calf born during winter.
- The organization suggested the calf likely died from pneumonia, and experts note that dolphins are known to carry their dead young for extended periods as a sign of mourning.
- Neuroscientist Lori Marino emphasized the significance of the pod's behavior, observing that other dolphins stayed close to Fraggle, indicating a communal recognition of her loss.
- This video adds to existing evidence of complex emotional responses in dolphins, showcasing not only individual grief but also social support within the pod.
