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Published on: April 10, 2026
Whistle sequences in wild killer whales (Orcinus orca)
Rüdiger Riesch1, John K B Ford, Frank Thomsen
1Department of Zoology, University of Oklahoma, 730 Van Vleet Oval, Norman, Oklahoma 73019, USA.
The Journal of the Acoustical Society of America
|December 3, 2008
Summary
Killer whale whistle sequences are complex communication systems. These vocal sequences, including new whistle types and elements, are nonrandomly patterned and linked to social behaviors, likely produced by individuals.
Area of Science:
- Bioacoustics
- Animal Communication
- Marine Mammal Behavior
Background:
- Vocal sequences enhance information transfer in many species.
- Studies on cetacean vocal sequences are limited.
- Killer whale (Orcinus orca) vocalizations are complex and socially relevant.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze stereotyped whistle sequences in resident killer whales.
- To identify new whistle types and elements within sequences.
- To investigate the structure and behavioral context of killer whale whistle sequences.
Main Methods:
- Spectrographic analysis of 1140 whistle transitions in 192 whistle sequences.
- Recording and analysis of vocalizations from wild killer whales off Vancouver Island.
- Comparison with previously described stereotyped whistles.
Main Results:
- Identification of a new stereotyped whistle (W7) and two whistle elements (stammers, bridge elements).
- Nonrandom distribution of whistle types and nonrandom transition patterns within sequences.
- Strong association between whistle sequences and close-range social interactions, particularly among males.
Conclusions:
- Killer whale whistle sequences represent complex signal series.
- These sequences are likely emitted by single individuals.
- Whistle sequences play a significant role in the social behavior of killer whales.
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