Study: Dolphin Males Present Gifts to Females in Hopes of Impressing Them

Study: Dolphin Males Present Gifts to Females in Hopes of Impressing Them
A humpback dolphin carries a sponge. Scientists think males give marine sponges to impress potential mates. Screenshot via Guardian Australia
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A 10-year study found that dolphin males show off to females by presenting them with gifts and flexing their bodies.

The study, published in Scientific Reports, uncovered sophisticated mating patterns rarely seen in mammals, and previously unknown in dolphins. The study took place along the western coast of Australia in sites that include Coral Bay, the North West Cape, Dampier Archipelago, Cygnet Bay, and Cone Bay.
Colin Fredericson
Colin Fredericson
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Colin is a New York-based reporter. He covers Entertainment, U.S., and international news. Besides writing for online news outlets he has worked in online marketing and advertising, done voiceover work, and has a background in sound engineering and filmmaking. His foreign language skills include Spanish and Chinese.