Dolphins have names and introduce themselves
Dolphins use unique signature whistles as names, introducing themselves and remembering companions for over two decades, showcasing remarkable social intelligence.
Dolphins develop unique signature whistles, essentially their names, within months of birth. Other dolphins use these distinct whistles to 'call' specific individuals, and a dolphin will respond to its own whistle even years later. When two groups of dolphins meet, they exchange these signature whistles, much like humans introducing themselves. This sophisticated communication system allows them to coordinate hunting, call for help, and maintain group cohesion. Dolphins also boast the longest social memory in any non-human species, recognizing companions' whistles after more than 20 years.