Researchers Document Sperm Whale Cooperative Birth Behavior in Caribbean Waters

In July 2023, researchers observing sperm whales near Dominica in the Caribbean witnessed an unusual gathering of eleven whales clustered near the surface. Whale biologist Shane Gero, part of Project CETI (Cetacean Translation Initiative), noted this atypical behavior focused on a female named Rounder. The team initially observed blood in the water but soon realized they were documenting a live birth event. Using drone footage, they recorded multiple female whales—including unrelated individuals from different family groups—assisting with delivery and supporting the newborn calf for approximately three hours post-birth. The whales took turns lifting the calf to the surface for breathing until it could swim independently. The findings were published in the journal Science on March 26, 2026, representing the first documented instance of such cooperative behavior outside primate species. Researchers employed machine-learning analysis to identify individual roles during the event, with key helpers including the mother, an aunt, and a juvenile female from another family. Marine biologist David Gruber, president of Project CETI, emphasized the collaborative scientific effort required to interpret the data. The study suggests social bonds among sperm whales extend beyond immediate kinship. A separate paper in Scientific Reports details vocalizations recorded during the birth, with future research aiming to correlate sounds with specific behaviors. Experts like Jeremy Goldbogen of Stanford University highlighted the significance of new technologies enabling unprecedented whale behavior studies.