Why Do Dolphins Babysit Each Other’s Calves?

What Crafty Clover says in this video

Intro

Hi there, curious minds! I'm Crafty Clover! Let's discover something amazing. Why do dolphins babysit each other’s calves?

The Big Idea

Dolphins babysit each other's calves because it takes a team to raise little ones! In some groups, adults watch the calves while the mothers go hunting. That keeps the calves safe and gives mothers time to find food.

Babysitters

Step one: babysitters. Some dolphin groups have adults that help watch other dolphins' calves. They stay nearby while the mothers dive deep and go off to hunt.

Other-Parenting

Step two: a science word. Scientists call this alloparenting, which means other-parenting. It helps calves stay safe, and it gives mothers time to find food.

Strong Bonds

Step three: strong bonds. The social bonds in a pod are strong. Dolphins often stay together for years, so they know and trust each other.

A Closer Look

Let's take a closer look! The mothers go to find fish. The calves stay behind in the pod. Other dolphins watch over them. Then the mothers return with a full belly, and the calves swim back to them. Everyone helps.

Quick Facts

Quick facts! Dolphin calves are born tail first. Calves drink their mother's milk, because dolphins are mammals, just like us. Dolphins talk with whistles and clicks. Watch dolphins from a boat or the shore, and never swim up to them.

Think Like a Scientist

Now, think like a scientist! Make a list of three ways people in your family or school help look after the little ones. Write them down. Think about who does each job. How are these like a dolphin pod's team? Tell a grown-up!

Outro

Dolphins help each other care for the little ones. Science is amazing! Crafty Clover can be found on Amazon Books, Google Bookstore, and Apple Books. Available for purchase or download! Bye for now!