whale

Whale Communication: How Whales Talk to Each Other

Ocean Action HubNovember 8, 20248 min read
Humpback whale singing underwater

Humpback whale singing underwater

Whale Communication: Songs Across the Ocean

Whales are among the most vocal animals on Earth with complex communication systems.

Types of Whale Sounds

1. Songs (Baleen Whales)

  • Complex patterns lasting up to 20 hours
  • Only males sing (mostly)
  • Change and evolve over time

2. Clicks (Toothed Whales)

  • Used for echolocation
  • Up to 700 clicks per second

3. Whistles

  • Individual "signature whistles" like names
  • Used to identify each other

Communication Distance

SpeciesDistance
Blue Whale1,000+ miles
Humpback100+ miles
Sperm Whale60 miles

The Humpback Whale Song

  • All males in population sing same song
  • Song changes gradually over breeding season
  • Cultural transmission between populations

Threats: Ocean Noise Pollution

  • Ship traffic increasing
  • Sonar disrupts navigation
  • Whales must "shout" over noise

Frequently Asked Questions

Can whales talk to each other?

Yes, whales communicate using songs, clicks, whistles, and calls. Some have individual signature whistles like names.

How far can whale sounds travel?

Blue whale calls can travel over 1,000 miles across ocean basins.

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