Seasonal cyclicity of bonds between female dolphins

What is it about?

We have shown for the first time that bonds between adult female dolphins re-form seasonally and are stable over multiple years. These bonds coincide with the breeding and calving season and are predictable in time and space. We used Lagged Association Rate models to demonstrate this.

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Why is it important?

Seasonal cyclicity in bonds has not been shown before in other animals with the exception of primates. These findings have led to management strategies such as no-boat and speed restricted areas to provide refuge to these dolphins during critical behaviours and seasons.