Dolphins are known for their playful nature and intelligence. They have been observed engaging in various forms of play, including catching and tossing objects. However, in a recent discovery, researchers have found that dolphins have taken their playtime to the next level by using a pufferfish as a ball in their catch game.

The fascinating behavior was captured by wildlife photographer Scott Portelli off the coast of Western Australia. In his footage, a group of dolphins can be seen tossing a pufferfish back and forth in the water, playing a game of catch. The pufferfish, inflated to its full size, bounces off the dolphins’ snouts and fins, but the dolphins seem to have no trouble catching it.

While the sight is amusing, it raises questions about the intelligence of these marine mammals. The fact that dolphins have found a use for a pufferfish, a potentially deadly creature due to its poisonous spikes, showcases their ingenuity and ability to think outside the box. It also demonstrates their understanding of the pufferfish’s unique properties and how to safely handle it.

This behavior is not entirely unheard of. Dolphins have been known to play with objects like seaweed, plastic bags, and even jellyfish. However, using a pufferfish as a ball is a new and intriguing discovery. It shows the complexity of dolphin behavior and how much we still have to learn about these intelligent creatures.

The use of a pufferfish as a ball in a game of catch is a fascinating behavior observed in dolphins. It showcases their intelligence, creativity, and understanding of their environment. While we may never fully understand the depths of their intelligence, moments like these give us a glimpse into the complex world of these magnificent creatures.