Dolphins may learn how to use tools from friends

In Western Australia, dolphins have been observed using conch shells to catch fish for two decades. Sightings of this behavior have increased since May, leading researchers to speculate that dolphins may be learning this from each other. Researchers aim to test if this behavior involves advanced planning by placing shells in the water and observing if dolphins use them to attract fish.

What unique behavior have dolphins in WA been observed doing for two decades?

• Using conch shells to catch fish

• Jumping through hoops

• Swimming in circles

• Communicating with humans

Since when have sightings of the dolphins' unique behavior increased dramatically?

• Since January

• Since March

• Since May

• Since July

What is the speculation about how dolphins are learning the conch shell behavior?

• From their parents

• From their friends

• From humans

• From other marine animals

What do researchers want to determine about the dolphins' behavior?

• If it is harmful to the environment

• If it involves advanced planning

• If it is unique to WA

• If it is instinctual

What experiment do researchers plan to conduct to test their hypothesis?

• Feeding dolphins different types of fish

• Tracking dolphins' migration patterns

• Observing dolphins in captivity

• Placing shells in the water and observing them later