One of the best ways a female dolphin can learn how to care for a calf is to be around a baby and other more experienced females. Once a calf is born, DRC continues to watch the relationship between the females. We also conduct observational studies to learn more about the whole maternity process. Adult male dolphins generally do not appear around females unless mating. Pair bonded males will stay together for an extended period, if not all, of their lives.
Male dolphins play no role in raising their young.
In fact, male dolphins have been known to be a threat to baby dolphins. Adolescent dolphins also congregate in separate groupings called juvenile pods. This will occur once a calf is old enough to leave its mother. Each female dolphin seems to have a unique mothering style. Some mothers are very protective parents, while others seem more relaxed with letting their calves explore.