Dolphins’ open-mouth behaviors during play are like smiles, a study claims

Dolphins are known for what appear to be big, contagious smiles. But do they actually, well, smile?

The answer, according to a new study of dolphin play, is a resounding “maybe.” Dolphins use their smile-like facial expression when interacting with their mates during playful times, researchers report October 2 in iScience. That, the team says, suggests the cetaceans are doing something akin to a human laugh. But other experts urge caution in attributing humanlike behavior to creatures whose intent we can only guess at.

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