A new study shows humpback whales change the pitch of their song when another whale joins nearby. Researchers recorded singers and found that whales do not ignore each other. Instead, they listen and change sounds in response.
Whales sometimes shift single notes up or down depending on how a second singer vocalises. This behaviour happens in real time and appears deliberate rather than accidental. Scientists note that bats show some pitch adjustment and that humans can fine-tune voices when singing together, such as in choirs.
The results appear in the journal Animal Behaviour. Studying these vocal dynamics could help scientists understand how humpbacks perceive their social world.
Difficult words
- pitch — How high or low a sound is.
- vocalise — To make sounds with the voice.vocalises
- deliberate — Done on purpose, not by accident.
- choir — A group of people who sing together.choirs
- perceive — To notice or understand something with senses.
Tip: hover, focus or tap highlighted words in the article to see quick definitions while you read or listen.
Discussion questions
- Why could studying whale vocal behaviour help scientists understand whales?
- Have you ever changed your voice when someone else started singing with you? Describe it.
- Do you prefer singing alone or with a group, like a choir? Why?
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