In a series of unfortunate incidents, a solitary bottlenose dolphin has been causing distress among swimmers in Japan's Fukui Prefecture. Researchers believe that the dolphin's aggressive behavior is due to its loneliness, as it has been separated from its pod.

According to NBC News, last week a man was bitten on both hands by a dolphin while swimming at a beach in Tsuruga, making him the 18th person to be attacked by a dolphin in the area since July 21. Disturbingly, the number of people injured by dolphins in the region has reached over 45 since 2022.

Experts have observed unique fin markings on film and video, linking many of these incidents to a single male bottlenose dolphin. These dolphins are known for their social nature and typically live together in pods. The dolphin in question has been spotted swimming alone, which has led marine researchers to suggest that its unusual behavior may be a result of loneliness and sexual frustration caused by being isolated from its companions.

Dolphin ecologist Tadamichi Morisaka from Mie University in Tsu, Japan, explained that male bottlenose dolphins often engage in playful biting and social behaviors such as chasing each other and rubbing fins. In some cases, they even exhibit sexual behaviors with their counterparts. However, in the absence of a partner, the dolphin in Fukui seems to be interacting with humans as a substitute for a male pairmate.

Putu Mustika, a researcher from James Cook University, stated that dolphins can become aggressive when displaying mating behaviors and may misinterpret human interactions. The reasons behind this particular dolphin's isolation from its companions remain unclear.

As a response to the increasing number of attacks on swimmers, officials have implemented additional lifeguard patrols in the area and reduced swimming hours to minimize human interaction with the lonesome marine mammal.

This is not the first time a lone dolphin has caused disruptions due to isolation. In 2018, the French village of Landevennec had to temporarily ban swimming after a bottlenose dolphin named Zafar became overly playful with humans in the water. Similarly, Zafar's behavior was attributed to sexual frustration.

The situation in Fukui serves as a reminder of the complex emotions and behaviors exhibited by marine animals, highlighting the importance of understanding and protecting their natural habitats to avoid potential conflicts with humans.