When a dolphin whistles, what does it mean?
Summary
Science Friday host Flora Lichtman interviews Dr. Leila Sayigh about dolphin communication, focusing on unique "signature whistles" that function like names. Sayigh explains how dolphins use these sounds to identify themselves and copy others, noting that mothers often alter their pitch when interacting with calves. The discussion also covers non-signature whistles and the challenges of recording these underwater vocalizations.
Topics discussed
Sponsors and show introduction
Introduction to Dr. Leila Sayigh and dolphin whistles
Dolphin signature whistles as names
How dolphins develop their signature whistles
Uniqueness of dolphin signature whistles
Motherese: Whistle changes with calves
Listening to slowed-down mother-calf recordings
Challenges in capturing and identifying sounds
Confirming signature whistles through isolation
Non-signature whistles and shared sounds
Is dolphin communication a language?
The reality of interacting with wild dolphins
Credits and Earth Day listener call-in
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