Play in Wild and Captive Cetaceans

Although play behavior is difficult to define, it has been abundantly documented in the cetacean literature. Play behavior is prevalent among the various taxa and is exhibited by individuals of all age classes. However, it is often difficult to follow individuals, observe underwater behavior, and obtain multiple sightings of individuals when investigating free-ranging populations. Captive studies allow for the systematic manipulation of variables and the collection of detailed data with regard to individuals, age, and gender by being able to observe behavior both at the surface and underwater. Pooling information from both wild and captive studies of play allows for more robust theories, conclusions and understanding. In this paper, we provide a review of play behavior in both wild and captive cetacean populations as a first step toward a more complete understanding of the significance of cetacean play.