General
Pilot whales recorded along Great Australian Bight found to be mimicking predators’ calls
Researchers working at the Great Australian Bight have discovered that long-finned pilot whales can mimic the calls of their predators, which may help them to stay alive while they stealthily scavenge.
Key points:
- The first study of long-finned pilot whales in the Southern Hemisphere has found the mammals have some surprising vocal abilities
- Researchers found vocal similarities the Northern Hemisphere’s pilot whale species
- The research raises questions about just how far the animals may be able to travel
Curtin University lead author Rachael Courts said the five-year study revealed surprising findings.
“This mimicry may be a clever strategy employed by the whales to disguise themselves from predators including killer whales,” Ms Courts said.
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