It also seems that the elephants know each other by name. This is evident from surprising new scientific research, reports ScienceAlert. And if the results are confirmed, the elephant will be the only animal species capable – after humans – of that.
Bottlenose dolphins (a type of dolphin; ed.) communicate in a similar way, but they imitate a unique sequence of whistling sounds. This system still differs from our way of naming: Liams and Olivias didn’t grow up in this world because they made such a sound. Elephants now seem more likely to follow suit than humans, which is a random name.
Low frequency
Elephants are known for their trumpet-like sounds, but they actually communicate mainly through “grunts”. These tones have a frequency so low that they are inaudible to humans. In this way, legionnaires can talk to each other at a distance of up to six kilometres.
This is useful, for example, to ensure that the herd is not lost sight of when you have to forage. Calling each other by name will be an added credit.
625 roar
In this context, the team of behavioral ecologist Michael Pardo examined 625 caries at two different sites in Kenya. After analyzing the various characteristics, the machine learning algorithm was able to correctly predict the intended direction of the growl.
Elephants moved faster when they heard their name and also responded more quickly. In fact, many quadrupeds used the same growl to address the same recipient. From this, scientists concluded that elephants know each other “by name”. The study still needs to undergo peer review.
Unlimited free access to Showbytes? Which can!
Log in or create an account and never miss a thing from the stars.
“Total coffee specialist. Hardcore reader. Incurable music scholar. Web guru. Freelance troublemaker. Problem solver. Travel trailblazer.”
More Stories
Brabanders are concerned about climate change.
The “term-linked contract” saves space on the electricity grid.
The oystercatcher, the “unlucky national bird,” is increasingly breeding on rooftops.