This year, researchers have documented 18 incidents of aggressive behavior by an Indo-Pacific bottlenose dolphin (Tursiops aduncus) off the coast of Fukui Prefecture, Japan, resulting in injuries but fortunately no fatalities.
The unusual behavior is attributed to a male dolphin that appears to have taken up residence in the area, causing concern among local beachgoers. Typically, male bottlenose dolphins can grow up to 2.7 meters and weigh a minimum of 230 kilograms, with a wide distribution that includes waters around Australia and the Persian Gulf.
Reports of dolphin attacks began in 2022, but the situation has escalated in 2024, with incidents involving serious injuries, including broken ribs and deep bites. One child required 20-30 stitches after an encounter.
Ecologist Tadamichi Morisaki suggests that the dolphin's aggressive behavior may stem from a desire to engage with humans rather than true hostility. He asserts that if the dolphin intended to harm, it could have done so more effectively.
Researchers are currently analyzing photos and videos to determine if a single dolphin is responsible for all attacks and hope to develop an acoustic early warning system to alert beachgoers of potential danger.