Fin of the Month: REGR

Meet “Regrow” (REGR), a well-known female dolphin frequently sighted by the FAU Marine Mammal Stranding and Population Assessment team (MMSPA). Since the beginning of our photo-ID program in 2021, REGR has been sighted more than 30 times and documented with three different calves: MISY, c2REGR, and her newest calf, c3REGR, who was born in 2024.

Not only is REGR a great mother, she’s also a grandmother! Her first calf, MISY, has also been documented with three calves of her own, including c3MISY, who was just born this past winter. Grandma REGR is frequently seen traveling with members of her family. The photo above is from a recent sighting of MISY and c3MISY leading the group, with REGR and c3REGR trailing closely behind.

Females with young calves often travel together in what are known as nursery pods, where they may rely on one another for support in birthing, babysitting and raising their young. REGR’s family is a great example of the strong social bonds and cooperative care dolphins rely on to help raise the next generation.

All work conducted under NOAA NMFS permit #23069-02. If you see a marine mammal in distress, please call the FWC hotline (888) 404-3922.