Mother Dolphin's Grief on Display as She Carries Dead Calf for Days

Description

A heartbreaking video captured a mother dolphin carrying her lifeless calf through the waters off Perth, Australia, for six days, refusing to let go as other dolphins stayed by her side. The mother, known as Fraggle, was filmed carrying her two-week-old calf after it is believed to have died from pneumonia, according to Geographe Marine Research, which released the drone footage on July 20. Researchers said Fraggle had previously lost several calves. Experts said the behavior reflects maternal grief. Neuroscientist Lori Marino noted that the surrounding dolphins appeared to recognize what had happened and remained close to Fraggle throughout the ordeal. Scientists have documented dolphins and whales carrying their dead young for days or even weeks. Fraggle's six-day vigil offered a powerful glimpse into the bond between a mother and her calf, and the support shown by the rest of the pod during the loss.