Call combination patterns in Icelandic killer whales (Orcinus orca)
Anna Selbmann1, Patrick J O Miller2, Paul J Wensveen3
1Faculty of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Iceland, Reykjavík, Iceland. selbmann.anna@gmail.com.
Scientific Reports
|December 8, 2023
Summary
Killer whales (Orcinus orca) exhibit non-random, stereotyped call combinations, suggesting complex communication rules. These structured acoustic sequences, analyzed via Markov models, offer insights into odontocete vocal behavior.
Area of Science:
- Marine Biology
- Bioacoustics
- Animal Behavior
Background:
- Complex acoustic sequences are known in various species, particularly mysticete whales' songs.
- Limited knowledge exists regarding call combinations in odontocetes (toothed whales).
- Killer whales (Orcinus orca) are highly social and vocal marine mammals.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate call combinations produced by killer whales (Orcinus orca).
- To analyze the structure and patterns within killer whale vocalizations.
- To determine if call transitions and combinations deviate from random occurrence.
Main Methods:
- Utilized acoustic recordings from 22 multisensor tags deployed on killer whales.
- Employed a first-order Markov model to analyze transitions between call types/subtypes.
- Examined call combinations for repetitions, specific sequences, and stereotyped structures.
Main Results:
- Transitions between killer whale call types/subtypes were significantly non-random.
- Specific call repetitions and combinations occurred more frequently than expected by chance.
- Identified three clusters of mixed call combinations, some involving up to six call (sub-)types, with stereotyped sequences and rules for initial/final calls.
Conclusions:
- Killer whale vocalizations exhibit structured, non-random call combinations, indicating complex communication.
- The observed stereotyped patterns suggest underlying rules governing their acoustic sequences.
- Further research is needed to ascertain the function of these call combinations, especially those outside feeding contexts, and their potential link to behavior or social groups.
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