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Hearing in reindeer (Rangifer tarandus)
K Flydal1, A Hermansen, P S Enger
1Department of Biology, University of Oslo, Norway. kjetil.flydal@bio.uio.no
Journal of Comparative Physiology. A, Sensory, Neural, and Behavioral Physiology
|July 27, 2001
Summary
Reindeer (Rangifer tarandus tarandus) hearing was measured using a conditioned avoidance test. These animals can detect sounds from 70 Hz to 38 kHz, with optimal hearing between 1 kHz and 16 kHz.
Area of Science:
- Auditory science
- Animal behavior
- Ungulate biology
Background:
- Understanding the sensory capabilities of reindeer (Rangifer tarandus tarandus) is crucial for wildlife management and ecological studies.
- Previous research on ungulate hearing has provided a basis for comparison, but specific audiometric data for reindeer has been limited.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the audiogram of yearling male reindeer.
- To establish the frequency range and sensitivity of reindeer hearing.
- To compare reindeer hearing ability with that of other ungulates.
Main Methods:
- A conditioned suppression/avoidance procedure was employed, utilizing a drinking bowl that delivered electric shocks.
- Pure tone signals were presented at random intervals, and avoidance of shock was achieved by breaking contact with the bowl.
- Audiograms were generated based on the animals' responses to varying sound frequencies and intensities.
Main Results:
- Reindeer detected sounds at intensities of 60 dB or less across a broad frequency range (70 Hz to 38 kHz).
- The most sensitive hearing range was relatively flat between 1 kHz and 16 kHz.
- Peak hearing sensitivity was recorded at 8 kHz, with a minimal threshold of 3 dB.
Conclusions:
- Reindeer possess a wide hearing range, extending into high frequencies.
- Their hearing sensitivity is comparable to that of other known ungulate species.
- This data provides valuable insights into the auditory perception of reindeer in their natural environment.