Killer whales are capable of vocal learning.
Ontology highlight
ABSTRACT:
SUBMITTER: Foote AD
PROVIDER: S-EPMC1834009 | biostudies-literature | 2006 Dec
REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature
Publications
Killer whales are capable of vocal learning.
Foote Andrew D AD Griffin Rachael M RM Howitt David D Larsson Lisa L Miller Patrick J O PJ Hoelzel A Rus AR
Biology letters 20061201 4
The production learning of vocalizations by manipulation of the sound production organs to alter the physical structure of sound has been demonstrated in only a few mammals. In this natural experiment, we document the vocal behaviour of two juvenile killer whales, Orcinus orca, separated from their natal pods, which are the only cases of dispersal seen during the three decades of observation of their populations. We find mimicry of California sea lion (Zalophus californianus) barks, demonstratin ...[more]
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