Dolphins Whistle? New Studies Uncover Bonding Ritual, More Functions of Animal’s Vocal Sounds

Dolphins demonstrate amazing features that other swimmers can not. In a new study, an addition to their skillset was discovered. It was found that their ability to whistle is not just for basic communications, but also functions for socialization.

The latest research on dolphins reveals that male variants of the cetaceans carry out specialized white techniques to form a ritualistic bond with peers of the same sex.

The goal of this newly-discovered activity was analyzed to build up relationships with their 'wingmen.' Peers with strong bonds help each other during competition over a potential mate's affection.

Vocal Exchange in Bottlenose Dolphins

Two separate research regarding the social behaviors of dolphins was recently carried out, each by scholars from the University of Zurich and the University of Bristol.

According to the first study published in the journal Current Biology, titled "Allied male dolphins use vocal exchanges to "bond at a distance," the animals were observed with a popularity aspect. In this research, the bottlenose dolphins or Tursiops can become socially popular by simply exchanging vocal sounds with other community members.

In a separate study published in the same journal, titled "Social integration influences fitness in allied male dolphins," the data gathered from the dolphins in terms of their socialization showed similar results. The study presented how the more popular dolphin individuals successfully produce calves compared to other males in the group.

According to the investigation led by scholars from the University of Zurich, the bottlenose dolphin is fond of successfully working with their peers to get the attention of females from other male groups. The courtship commonly favors the individual who is much more popular than the rest.

Meanwhile, the University of Bristol's findings shows how male dolphins can maintain their popularity by expressing their high-pitched voice with other individuals. This strengthens their bonds more easily and effectively than other complex approaches such as physical bonding.

Dolphin's Effortless Socialization Through Vocal Skills

According to the authors, these behaviors are essential for the dolphins as it helps their social relations grow. According to DailyMail, the response of each of the members is also crucial for the development of their community, especially when the population becomes larger and competition over resources increases.

Bristol's School of Biological Sciences expert and lead author of the study Emma Chereskin explained that animals, including the human species, commonly use tactile contact to build and reaffirm their relationships with others.

However, the changes in the environment and closer social ties, the demand in aspects such as space and time hinders the particular physical contact. The experts noted this when observing the male bottlenose dolphins in a tight situation. The lack of resources and limited chances push them to rely on a social approach that uses less demand of time.

The analysis was made possible through the help of acoustic and behavioral data from dolphins that were collected in almost a decade. According to a report by ScienceDaily, most of the subjects observed are located in Western Australia's Shark Bay.

Check out more news and information on Biology in Science Times.