In a captivating display reminiscent of last year’s orca “salmon hats,” male Australian humpback dolphins have been spotted sporting unusual headwear: sea sponges. 🐬👒 Images captured by scientists from the Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions (DBCA) off Western Australia’s Burrup Peninsula reveal these playful creatures adorning themselves with the invertebrates in an intriguing ritual.
The DBCA playfully suggests on Instagram that these sponge selections serve as romantic offerings to attract mates, much like a bouquet of flowers for humans. While seemingly bizarre, this behavior appears specific to Australian humpback dolphins (Sousa sahulensis).
Researchers observed them navigating Flying Foam Passage in the Dampier Archipelago with sponges of various shapes, sizes, and colors proudly perched atop their heads. This intriguing trend seems confined to pockets along Western Australia’s coast: the Dampier Archipelago, Exmouth Gulf further south, and the Kimberley region to the north.
This isn’t the first time dolphins have been seen utilizing sponges— bottlenose dolphins are known to use them for protection while foraging on the seabed. However, this intentional “fashion” statement, with its apparent mating purpose, appears unique to these Western Australian humpback dolphins.
Further adding to the fascination is the relatively recent recognition of the Australian humpback dolphin as a distinct species in 2014. Classified as “vulnerable,” their population is estimated at fewer than 10,000 adults worldwide. Habitat loss and degradation due to industrial development along Australia’s coast pose significant threats to these animals.
Understanding unusual behaviors like this sponge display offers valuable insights into the social dynamics, communication methods, and ecological pressures faced by these captivating creatures. It underscores the importance of continued research and conservation efforts to protect their dwindling numbers.
