How do whales communicate?

Quick Answer

Whales communicate using a sophisticated combination of sound, physical action, and touch. Because visibility is limited underwater, sound is their primary tool. It travels four times faster and much farther in the ocean than in the air. Cetaceans produce three main types of acoustic signals: clicks, whistles, and pulsed calls.

Toothed whales, such as the Killer Whale, primarily use whistles for social communication and high-frequency clicks for echolocation to hunt. In contrast, baleen whales like the Blue Whale utilize low-frequency moans and booming groans that can traverse entire ocean basins. Beyond sound, whales use Behavior like breaching (leaping out of the water), spyhopping, and pec-slapping to signal dominance, excitement, or danger to nearby pod members.

For a deeper dive into the specific noises these giants make, explore our guide on Sounds & Songs.

What You Need to Know

Understanding how whales communicate requires looking at the physics of the ocean and the distinct biological differences between whale suborders. While humans rely heavily on sight, a whale’s world is primarily auditory.

The Acoustics of the Deep

In the dense medium of saltwater, light is absorbed quickly, leaving the depths in darkness. However, sound waves propagate with incredible efficiency. This allows cetaceans to stay in contact even when they are miles apart.

Whales do not have vocal cords like humans. Instead, they produce sounds by moving air between sinuses and air sacs in their heads. Toothed whales (odontocetes) generate clicks and whistles by passing air through structures called “phonic lips” located in their nasal passages. Baleen whales (mysticetes) have a larynx, but it lacks vocal cords; scientists believe they recycle air inside their bodies to create low-frequency resonance.

Toothed Whales vs. Baleen Whales

The communication style depends heavily on the species’ anatomy and lifestyle.

Toothed Whales (Odontocetes): Species like the Sperm Whale and various dolphins live in tight social groups and hunt specific prey. They use:

• Echolocation: Rapid bursts of clicks that bounce off objects, allowing the whale to “see” with sound. This is essential for hunting in dark waters.
• Signature Whistles: Distinctive whistles that identify individual members, much like a name.
• Social Calls: Diverse squeaks and screams used during play or conflict.

Baleen Whales (Mysticetes): These massive filter feeders, including the Humpback Whale and the Fin Whale, tend to be more solitary but communicate over massive ranges.

• Infrasound: Extremely low-frequency sounds (below 20 Hz) produced by blue and fin whales. These sounds are too low for humans to hear without equipment but can travel thousands of miles.
• Songs: The male humpback whale is famous for its complex songs. These structured sequences of moans and cries evolve over time and are likely used for mating displays.

The Language of Codas and Clans

Communication is not just about noise; it is about culture. Research into sperm whales has revealed they use rhythmic patterns of clicks known as codas. Different clans of sperm whales have distinct dialects. Even if two different clans meet in the ocean, they rarely interact, preferring to communicate only with those who speak their specific “language.”

Similarly, orca pods have unique vocal dialects. A pod in the Pacific Northwest will sound completely different from a pod in the North Atlantic. These learned behaviors are passed down from generation to generation, representing a form of animal culture.

Body Language and Tactile Communication

When whales are in close proximity, they often switch to visual and tactile signals. This is common during mating, nursing, or aggression.

• Breaching: Launching the entire body out of the water creates a massive splash and a loud sound that can be heard underwater and above the surface. This may signal physical fitness or serve as a way to dislodge parasites.
• Tail and Pec Slapping: Slapping flukes or pectoral fins against the water is often a sign of aggression or a warning signal.
• Tactile Contact: Mothers and calves maintain constant physical contact. Known as “echelon swimming,” calves swim close to their mothers to save energy and bond.

Key Takeaways

• Sound is Primary: Whales rely on sound more than sight because it travels faster and farther underwater.
• Two Main Strategies: Toothed whales use clicks for echolocation and whistles for socializing, while baleen whales use low-frequency moans and complex songs.
• Cultural Dialects: Species like sperm whales and orcas have distinct vocal dialects specific to their family groups or clans.
• Physical Signals: Close-range communication involves body language like breaching, tail slapping, and physical touch.
• Human Impact: Ocean noise pollution from ships and drilling disrupts whale communication, making Conservation efforts regarding noise regulation vital for their survival.

For more details on specific vocalizations, you might ask what noises do whales make.