Other dolphins: Inter-species aggression and predation can occur among different species of dolphins. Some species, such as the orca (killer whale), are known to hunt and prey on smaller dolphins. Orcas are highly intelligent predators that can use sophisticated hunting strategies to capture and kill dolphins.
Humans: Human activities pose significant threats to dolphins. Some of the major human-related threats include:
- Bycatch: Dolphins can accidentally get caught in fishing nets or traps intended for other marine species. This can lead to injury or death.
- Habitat loss: Coastal development, pollution, and other human activities can degrade or destroy dolphin habitats, disrupting their food sources, breeding grounds, and migration routes.
- Hunting: Dolphins are sometimes hunted for their meat, oil, or for use in captivity for entertainment purposes.
Diseases: Dolphins can be susceptible to various diseases and infections, including viral, bacterial, and parasitic infections. These diseases can spread within dolphin populations and may have severe impacts on their health and survival.
Climate change: Climate change can affect dolphin populations by altering their habitats and food sources, as well as increasing the frequency and intensity of extreme weather events, which can disrupt their behavior and survival.