Dolphins and Humans
Dolphin and Human
Relationship
Humans have been interacting with dolphins for as long as we
have known of their existence. In the beginning, human interaction was mainly limited to hunting dolphins. In the
1960's humans began the practice of capturing various species of dolphins for research, as well as for
entertainment and profit. But, fortunately, both humans and dolphins have evolved, and our interactions with
dolphins have changed, and the exploitation of dolphins is steadily declining, even as man-made threats to the
survival of the species are increasing.
For years, scientists have studied the vocalization of dolphins. Basically, they
have been trying to figure out exactly how dolphins communicate with each other, and how humans might communicate
with these highly intelligent creatures. Researchers believe that communication is possible with sonar - the
dolphins natural sonar combined with our man-made sonar equipment. Research continues in this area
today.
Initial capture of dolphins did prove to be useful. Much was learned about their
socialization, and their intelligence. The United States Navy commonly uses dolphins in missions, to guard ships
against enemy swimmers, and to locate and mark underwater mines. Military dolphins have even been trained to lead
lost divers to safety, and there have been many reports from private citizens over the years of dolphins saving
their lives when they were stranded in the ocean, or drowning. Due to the reported incidents of dolphins saving
swimmers, dolphins were once called 'Saviors of The Sea.' Today, many people consider dolphins to be spiritual
healers, and they believe that if they swim with the dolphins, they will be healed of any ailments or illnesses
they have.
Dolphins seem to have as much of an interest in human beings as humans have in
dolphins. They often travel along beside boats, and pop their heads out of the water to take a look at people on
the boats, or people on shore. Many cultures consider dolphins to be sacred, powerful creatures, that should be
revered and respected. Great numbers of dolphin lovers dream of swimming with the dolphins in the ocean, and many
make that dream become a reality. These people report the experience as one of the most precious moments of their
lives.
In recent years, dolphins have lost a little of their popularity, due to an
increase in unexplained dolphin attacks on porpoises and young dolphins. Some people have even reported that their
dolphin swimming experiences were ruined by the dolphins biting and bumping them. What humans fail to realize, is
that even though dolphins are sociable and intelligent, they are still wild. Therefore, if you interact with them,
you should be prepared for them to act like the wild animals that they are, and give them the respect and space
that wild animals deserve. The sea is home to the dolphins, and you are the uninvited visitor.
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