Many non-human species imitate the behavior of others, and dolphins seem particularly adept at this
form of observational learning. Evidence for observational learning in wild dolphins is rare, given the
difficulty of observing individual wild animals in sufficient detail to eliminate other possible
explanations of purported imitation. Consequently, much of the evidence supporting observational
learning in dolphins has involved animals in captive settings. This research suggests that dolphins
have an affinity for mimicry, and that they are more successful at observational learning if they
choose to imitate another rather than being asked to do so. These results, combined with those
obtained from wild dolphins, suggest that imitation may play important roles in the ontogeny of a
variety of behaviors, including those involved in communication, foraging, and parenting.