Guests will often ask us guides what our favourite animals are: most certainly never an easy question to answer based on the incredible diversity, complexity and sheer beauty surrounding us. However, when I think back to the memory bank of emotionally moving moments I have experienced here – the vast majority are with elephants. Perhaps this is why that’s the answer I always give. Whether it is the sheer power of their presence or perhaps it is the deep emotional energy you feel when a herd surrounds your vehicle, the answer is always the same.
The richness of elephant communication extends far beyond what meets the human ear or eye. From the unmistakable trumpeting that echoes through the bush to the subtle nuances of body language and the silent conversations carried on through infrasound and chemical signals, elephants employ a diverse array of methods to convey their thoughts, emotions, and intentions. Ranger Barry, wrote an insightful blog on various aspects of Elephant Communication.
As is usually the case in the complexities and genius of nature, these gentle giants traverse the landscape, bending nature to their will. They move endlessly, creating pathways, changing landscapes and influencing ecosystems – yet there is so much to learn from and about them. As always there is a deeper level, one we are only starting to understand.
A recent study from international researchers based in Keyna, using AI algorithms to analyse thousands of hours of communication between two separate herds has groundbreaking implications that we are just coming to grips with: Elephants call out to each other using individual names that they invent for their fellow pachyderms. Let that sink in.
We have always touted their intelligence, but this takes them to a new level. Along with humans, they are now one of only two species that generate a random word, and associate that to an individual. Showing incredible ability for abstract thought and learning. This adds a new layer of complexity to the already moving elephant mourning rituals, as they are now mourning a known individual, not just a member of the herd. The implications of this are huge.
The research “not only shows that elephants use specific vocalisations for each individual, but that they recognise and react to a call addressed to them while ignoring those addressed to others”, the lead study author, Michael Pardo, said.
“This indicates that elephants can determine whether a call was intended for them just by hearing the call, even when out of its original context,” the behavioural ecologist at Colorado State University said in a statement.
Names were not always used in the elephant calls. But when names were called out, it was often over a long distance, and when adults were addressing young elephants. Adults were also more likely to use names than calves, suggesting it could take years to learn this particular talent.
The energy of a breeding herd of elephants near a water hole or mud wallowing is contagious and always entertaining to witness.
Despite our differences, humans and elephants share many similarities such as extended family units with rich social lives, underpinned by highly developed brains. There is no doubt that elephants use names for one another is likely only the start of the revelations to come. So next time you are sitting in the vehicle, surrounded by these giant pachyderms, take a moment to soak it all in and recognise that as much as we know each other, so do elephants the same.
I love all animals, but elephants are among a group which hold a special place in my heart. Thanks for this post! I enjoy all of them!
Thank you, Keagan, for this blog. Elephants are my favorite animal, they are magnificent ceatures.
Ellies are the best! And my fave of ALL the beautiful creatures we saw on our safari…inspired my tattoo 😉
That’s so interesting, Keagan, and also so amazing. Elephants are such special animals and I also love watching them especially near water. They can be so entertaining. Next time I meet them I will pay special attention to their many ways of communication
Hi Keagan, elephants are very intelligent and have a very good memory. They way they communicate with each other is absolutely amazing. I love it when they rumble. Gentle giants they certainly are.
Hi, I agree on everything, I have been following the studies on elephants since the very first wih Ian Douglas-Hamilton. Animal behaviour was in my genes! They are spectacular and special animals, I just hope that other of their kinds, such as whales, sperm-whales, hippos, giraffe, were as appreciated and loved as elephants, dolphins and killer whales…. elephants and giraffes are so relaxing, dolphins are funny and friendly by nature, whales and sperm-whales are so mysterious and intriguing that just now there are deeper studies and datas on their complex and articulated languages and cultures. I can’t have a favourite, i love them all! For sure whales give me a special shiver
This is truly fascinating Keagan. It seems researchers announce something new they’ve discovered about the elephant family and then months later another discovery is revealed. To be in the presence of a breeding herd of elephants, is calming and soulful, as well as entertaining when youngsters are present. And now we know that the sounds heard among the herd actually are not random, but directed to a specific member of the family.
Keagan, Thanks for an enlightening post! It’s amazing that scientists are finding these communication skills!!!