Natural Predators:
* Sharks: Some larger shark species, like Great Whites and Bull Sharks, can prey on dolphins, especially calves.
* Orcas (Killer Whales): Orcas are the apex predators of the ocean and can hunt and kill dolphins.
* Other Marine Mammals: Occasionally, large toothed whales like sperm whales or pilot whales may prey on dolphins.
Human-Made Threats:
* Bycatch: Dolphins are often caught unintentionally in fishing nets, particularly in driftnets and gillnets. This is one of the most significant threats to dolphin populations.
* Habitat Loss and Degradation: Pollution, coastal development, and climate change impact dolphin habitat, reducing their food sources and increasing stress.
* Pollution: Pollution from oil spills, plastic waste, and industrial runoff can harm dolphins, causing poisoning, entanglement, and habitat degradation.
* Noise Pollution: Shipping noise, sonar, and seismic surveys can interfere with dolphin communication and navigation, leading to stress and even strandings.
* Climate Change: Climate change leads to ocean warming and acidification, impacting dolphin prey populations and habitat.
Other Threats:
* Disease: Dolphins can be affected by a variety of diseases, some of which can be fatal.
* Human Interaction: Disturbances from boat traffic, tourism, and interactions with humans can stress dolphins and impact their behavior.
It's crucial to remember that dolphins are highly intelligent and social animals. They face numerous challenges, and protecting them requires understanding and mitigating these threats.