Dolphins in the wild: An eight year field study on dolphin communication and interspecies interaction

This study describes eight years observing free-ranging Atlantic spotted dolphins, Stenella frontalis, in Bahamian waters. This research site is one of the few places on the planet where dolphins can be regularly observed, underwater. These spotted dolphins are curious of humans in their environment. This provides an opportunity for observation of dolphin culture, similar to the long-term research with chimpanzees and gorillas in the wild. Primary to this methodology, is an appropriate etiquette with the dolphins. This included developing mutual respect, non-invasive technology, and sensitivity to their expressions and needs.; Since 1985, one hundred resident dolphins were observed five months every summer at sea. Photo identification was used to track natural markings of individuals and follow their association patterns and life histories over the years. Dolphins live in learning societies where interaction with members of their culture determines their ability to mature and learn the roles and responsibilities of dolphin life. Behavior and communication signals, including acoustic, tactile, and visual, were documented using underwater video and sound recordings. Spotted dolphins and bottlenose dolphins, Tursiops, truncatus, became increasingly trusting and afforded us the opportunity to observe their behavior.; Maintaining a host-guest relationship with a non-human culture under study is critical for continued interaction and access to other species. Developing new frameworks, that include participatory science, will require the evolution of an ethics and appropriate etiquette when interacting with non-human species.