In recent days, several incidents involving dolphins have attracted attention at various points along the Spanish and Uruguayan coasts. These events have generated a certain concern and fascination among bathers, experts, and the general public, who are unfamiliar with this type of incident. The appearance of dead specimens in bathing areas and the presence of live ones near boats have once again put the spotlight on the relationship between humans and these marine animals.
The scientific community, for its part, is engaged in pioneering research to understand the complex communication system of dolphins. The search for answers about their behavior, potential threats, and their connection to environmental changes and human activity remains a priority for marine biologists, institutions, and volunteer groups.
Recent dolphin strandings on Spanish beaches
During the morning of this Tuesday, the coast of Benicarló and PeñÃscola (Castellón) and Palmones beach (Los Barrios, Cádiz) have been the scene of the appearance of dead dolphinsIn Palmones, the discovery shocked those present, especially because it was a child who, while playing on the shore, found the animal's body. The swift action of swimmers alerted the rescue services, who cordoned off the area and removed the carcass while they awaited the Seprona (National Emergency Service), the Civil Guard unit responsible for these types of situations.
In the north of Castellón, the episode was similar: neighbors and tourists sighted a dolphin floating lifeless in the water between both towns. Rescuers and specialized teams worked together to recover the animal and activate the health protocol, with the aim of analyzing the causes of death and avoiding potential risks to public health.
These incidents, although rare, are not exceptional. Authorities stress the importance of Do not touch or handle marine animal remains and always notify emergency services, since these mammals may carry diseases or have been victims of pollutants present in the sea.
An unprecedented stranding in Uruguay
On the other hand, in Punta del Este (Uruguay) a phenomenon occurred that is considered historic for the local scientific community: the stranding of a southern smooth dolphin (Lissodelphis peronii), a case never reported in the country to date. The animal was found among the rocks by volunteers and members of the BallenasUy group, who raised the alarm to provide assistance.
This specimen attracted attention for its unusual morphology and the absence of a dorsal fin, something that sets it apart from other more common species in the region. Despite several attempts to return it to the sea, only in the last attempt did it manage to swim again on its own, in an incident that highlights the need for updated protocols to address these situations.
According to specialists, this dolphin typically lives in deep waters and rarely comes close to shore, so the cause of its stranding is still unknown. Experts insist that these incidents allow rescue teams to improve their response and gather valuable information about the species that inhabit the South Atlantic.
Dolphins spotted near tourist boats
The presence of dolphins on the coast is not always negative. In Tarragona, passengers on a well-known tourist boat were lucky enough to closely observe a pair of dolphins swimming alongside the boat, which sparked surprise and jubilation among those present. Although it is an exciting event, experts point out that the presence of these cetaceans on the Tarragona coast, while occasional, is not entirely unprecedented.
These animals are attracted to banks de peces They are abundant in the area, and their sighting often sparks great interest among both tourists and residents. The opportunity to see them in their natural environment helps raise awareness about the importance of protecting these animals and their habitat.
Scientific advances in understanding dolphin language
The fascination for complex communication system of dolphins This has led to a groundbreaking international project involving researchers from different countries and major technology companies. DolphinGemma, an artificial intelligence model developed by Google, is being trained to analyze the patterns of sounds and whistles emitted by these mammals.
The system recognizes sequences of clicks and tones and attempts to associate them with specific behaviors or situations, with the goal of observing whether dolphins use a "language" similar to that of humans or whether, on the contrary, their communication is more limited to emotional states or specific needs.
Tests include the use of a portable device that plays dolphin-like sounds, allowing researchers to interact in controlled environments and analyze the animals' reactions. Although much remains to be discovered, the possibility of establishing a more direct communication channel with these cetaceans could open new doors to marine science.
All these Recent findings show that dolphins continue to be protagonists of our coastline and an object of study and interest. From unexpected strandings to technological advances in understanding their language, each news story reveals the need to protect these species and strengthen collaboration between citizens and experts to ensure the conservation of marine life and the balance of our seas.