Elephants signal “let’s go” with specific deep rumbles, reveals new research.
Male elephants are described as living in loose social groups, making this finding particularly striking. We found that this vocal coordination occurs in groups of closely associated, highly bonded individuals and rarely occurs between looser associates.
In the Press
Biologists discover male elephants use infrasonic rumbles to signal 'let's go'
Scientists discover elephants use complex vocal communication
Male elephants use deep rumbles to signal when it is time to go
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The secret language of elephants: Males use deep rumbles to signal 'let's go' to their pals, study finds
Male elephants use deep rumbles to signal when it is time to go
Male elephants make this fascinating sound to signal it’s time to go
“We were astonished to find that male elephants, typically considered to have loose social ties, engage in such sophisticated vocal coordination to trigger action”
Dr Caitlin O’Connell-Rodwell
For All Readers - AI Explainer
What new behavior was discovered in male African elephants regarding group departures?
The study discovered that male African elephants use coordinated vocalizations, known as “let’s go” rumbles, to organize group departures from a waterhole.
What was previously known about the use of “let’s go” rumbles in elephants?
“Let’s go” rumbles were previously documented only in tightly-knit family groups of elephants, used to keep the family together during coordinated departures.
How do male elephants typically live, and why is this new finding significant?
Male elephants usually live in looser social groups. The finding is significant because it shows that even in these less structured groups, males use coordinated vocalizations for group activities, which was not previously known.
Which male elephants are most likely to initiate the “let’s go” rumbles?
The individuals most likely to initiate the “let’s go” rumbles are those who are highly socially integrated and often the most dominant within the group.
How does this new finding contrast with previous beliefs about leadership in male elephants?
Previously, it was believed that older male elephants led groups passively by unintentionally guiding subordinates to resources. The new finding shows that male elephants can actively lead group movements through vocal coordination.
What does the involvement of many group members in vocal bouts indicate about decision-making in these groups?
The involvement of many group members in the vocal bouts suggests a consensus decision-making process regarding the timing of the group departure, even though a lead individual initiates the event.
Why is this study important for understanding male elephant society?
This study highlights the role of socially integrated males in leading and coordinating group activities, suggesting that these individuals are crucial for the social structure and functioning of male elephant groups.
What future research directions does the study propose?
The study suggests future research should explore the benefits and conditions of coordinated vocalizations among male elephants, as well as the extent of vocal manipulation and coordination in different populations.
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