One of Tangalooma’s famous wild dolphins surprised and thrilled resort guests last night when she appeared with her day-old calf in tow.

Tangles, already a one-time mum, was last seen by dolphin care workers on Tuesday evening, when she showed signs of being in labour – frequently stretching her back.

Trevor Hassard of the dolphin care team said back stretching was a common feature of dolphin behaviour during the final stages of a pregnancy.

“We knew she was due to have the calf at any time but the fact that she brought this new little one into shore so soon after the birth is a wonderful gift,” Mr Hassard said.

“Tangles was born in 2000 and is the daughter of Tinkerbell, who is also a new mum, having given birth to Luna only a few months ago.

“The linage means the new calves are closely related with Luna being the aunt of the new calf.

“It’s very special for us to have two calves coming into the program so close in time.”

Mr Hassard said as the dolphins are wild it may be some months or even years before the sex of the calf is determined.