The effects of human-dolphin interaction programmes on the behaviour of three captive Indo-Pacific humpback dolphins (Sousa chinensis)

Abstract

Performances by dolphins have long been an integral part of marine parks whereas human-dolphin interaction sessions are a relatively new phenomenon. However, few studies have examined the effect of either of these types of activities on captive dolphin behaviour. Here, the behaviours, enclosure utilisation, and social interactions of three dolphins at Underwater World, Singapore (UWS), were quantified to see if any changes occurred 'before versus after' two types of dolphin interactions sessions: swim-with- the-dolphin (SWD) and meet-with-the-dolphin (MWD) programmes. Focal sampling was used to quantify the percentage of time spent on different behaviours and instantaneous scan sampling to quantify enclosure utilisation and social interactions. Significant differences were found among the dolphins for the overall percentage of time spent on each behaviour category. The SWD programme, however, appeared to not have compromised the dolphins' welfare, with at least one individual displaying anticipatory behaviours towards the programme. Swimming and locomotion behaviours increased after the MWD sessions for all dolphins, suggesting this programme elicited some form of excitement. This work provides the first quantitative insight into captive behaviour of the Indo-Pacific humpback dolphin (Sousa chinensis) and will contribute to their future management. © National University of Singapore.