* Bottlenose dolphins have few natural predators. Their main predators are sharks, but even then, attacks are relatively rare.
* Females are often more experienced and skilled. They have to protect themselves and their calves, which can make them better at avoiding predators.
* Calves are protected by their mothers. Mothers are very protective and will defend their calves from predators.
* Dolphins are social and travel in pods. This provides safety in numbers, meaning any individual is less likely to be targeted.
What might be confusing the issue:
* Calves are more vulnerable than adults. This is true, but not because of gender. Calves are smaller, less experienced, and weaker, making them vulnerable to predators. This vulnerability is present in both male and female calves.
In summary:
While all dolphins, including calves, can be vulnerable to predators, it's not accurate to say that females and children are more vulnerable than males. Their strength, experience, and social structures actually work to protect them.