But this isn’t a one-off. In fact, our new study, published today in Discover Animals, shows interspecies interactions between dolphins and whales are widespread and frequent around the world.

An astonishing interaction

Researchers suggested such close contact between whales and dolphins is likely very rare — and maybe related to caregiving.

Many are also featured on social media.

A ‘whale’s-eye view’ of the world

We categorised behaviours such as rolling, tail slaps, bow riding, and rubbing, and classified dolphin positions relative to whale body parts such as head, flank and tail fluke.

Having fun or fighting?

Humpback whales were the most involved whale species, while bottlenose dolphins led the dolphin side.

Bottlenose dolphins were the kind of dolphin that featured most frequently in interactions with whales. Source: Getty / Justin Sullivan

Based on videos we analysed, dolphins initiated most interactions through bow riding, swimming in formation, or even touching whales.

They maintained eye contact or even touched the whales’ head — suggesting intentional, possibly social, engagement.

Reflecting advanced emotional capabilities

Dolphins may seek out whales as companions for stimulation, play or even courtship-like behaviour.