Lone dolphin attacks beach-goers at Wakasa Bay, Japan
Experts believe one dolphin responsible for series of attacks in Wakasa Bay
A solitary dolphin might be responsible for attacking several beach-goers in Japan.
While sharks typically receive the warnings at beaches, visitors to Wakasa Bay, known for its stunning beaches, have been cautioned about dolphins in the waters over the past few years.
Dolphins are usually friendly and sociable. However, experts think a lone bottlenose dolphin could be causing a series of attacks at this Japanese seaside resort.
In 2022, 21 injuries from dolphin attacks were reported along beaches near Echizen. Last year, another 10 people suffered injuries. This year, 18 more incidents have occurred, including a child who needed several stitches.
Experts analysed footage and believe one dolphin is responsible for these attacks.
Tadamichi Morisaka, a cetology professor at Japan’s Mie University, noted, “It is reasonable to assume it is the same individual. The wounds on the tail fin match those seen last year, and it’s uncommon for dolphins, which usually move in groups, to remain alone for so long.”
The unusual aggression might be due to the dolphin being ‘horny and lonely.’ “Dolphins can be very wild during mating,” explained Putu Mustika, a lecturer and marine researcher at James Cook University in Australia.
Supporting this theory, Professor Morisaka observed the dolphin pressing its genitals against people in footage from 2022 and 2023. Mustika added that the animals can unintentionally hurt humans due to their strength when they exhibit mating behaviours.
Dr Simon Allen, a biologist with the Shark Bay Dolphin Research Project, elaborated on the dolphin’s strength. “Bottlenose dolphins are highly social and express this physically. Hormonal changes, sexual frustration, or a desire to dominate might lead to injuries in humans. Their power can cause serious harm.”
Besides sexual frustration, beach-goers attempting to touch the dolphin might have provoked it, leading to attacks.
What Other Media Are Saying
- BBC News reports that a solitary and potentially sexually frustrated bottlenose dolphin has been blamed for a spike in attacks on swimmers in a Japanese seaside town, with experts suggesting that the dolphin’s social isolation and hormonal changes may be contributing factors. (read more)
- The New York Times reports on the alarming rise of dolphin attacks along Japanese beaches, with nearly 50 beachgoers injured since 2022, potentially caused by a single, frustrated dolphin seeking attention. (read more)
- Yahoo News reports on a lonely and sexually frustrated dolphin in Japan blamed for a spate of attacks on beachgoers, with experts attributing the behavior to the animal’s isolation and social needs. (read more)
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions asked about this news
Why are dolphins attacking people in Japan?
Experts believe a lonely and possibly sexually frustrated dolphin is behind the attacks.
How many people have been injured by dolphin attacks in Japan?
49 people have been injured over the past three years.
Is it common for dolphins to attack humans?
No, dolphins are typically friendly and sociable. Such attacks are rare.
What might be causing the dolphin in Japan to behave aggressively?
The dolphin’s aggression may be due to sexual frustration and loneliness.
Can beach-goers do anything to avoid dolphin attacks?
Avoid trying to touch the dolphin, as this can aggravate it.
