dolphins show more signs of higher intelligence

[lane912]

Dolphins



In extraordinary scenes filmed for a new documentary, young dolphins were seen carefully manipulating a certain kind of puffer fish which, if provoked, releases a nerve toxin.

Though large doses of the toxin can be deadly, in small amounts it is known to produce a narcotic effect, and the dolphins appeared to have worked out how to make the fish release just the right amount.

Carefully chewing on the puffer and passing it between one another, the marine mammals then enter what seems to be a trance-like state.

The behaviour was captured on camera by the makers of Dolphins: Spy in the Pod, a series produced for BBC One by the award-winning wildlife documentary producer John Downer.

Rob Pilley, a zoologist who also worked as a producer on the series, told the Sunday Times: “This was a case of young dolphins purposely experimenting with something we know to be intoxicating.

“After chewing the puffer gently and passing it round, they began acting most peculiarly, hanging around with their noses at the surface as if fascinated by their own reflection.

“It reminded us of that craze a few years ago when people started licking toads to get a buzz, especially the way they hung there in a daze afterwards. It was the most extraordinary thing to see.”

[Iciclehead]

....interesting, but can the dolphins spell better than humans?

So far, based on this post, I'm going with the dolphins, they sound like a fun bunch!

Dennis

[Jim Richards]

I don't get it. Dolphin stoners are considered a higher intelligence?

[kach22i]

Since when has "getting high" as an adolescent been regarded as a sign of intelligence?

[GH85Carrera]

I almost think my dogs mess with toads to get a buzz. The dogs will be outside a long time and when I go look for them they are all foamed up at the mouth and acting strange. They will not leave the toad alone. I have to lock them up inside.

[lane912]

what does the puffer fish get out of it?

[Nostril Cheese]

So long and thanks for all the fish..

[lane912]

^^^^^^
ding!!
give the man a prize-

[MBAtarga]

Originally Posted by lane912

what does the puffer fish get out of it?

I guess survival - as long as the dolphins don't eat it

[pete3799]

Great......dolphin crack heads.
Soon they'll be wearing their pants halfway down their tail flukes.

[lane912]

this is straight out of naked lunch-