Humpbacks are not the only cetaceans to produce vocalizations associated with mating and reproduction. Bowhead whales also produce songs; however, they are much simpler than humpback songs. Fin whales produce low frequency pulses on their breeding grounds. The fin whale pulses can travel much longer distances than humpback songs. Male sperm whales also produce loud, slow, low frequency clicks when accompanying a breeding group of females. These clicks differ from clicks in coda patterns in that they are much louder and not given in any repeatable pattern. It has been said that the loud clicks of a sperm whale sound like a firecracker exploding inside a metal can.

Sperm whales also produce sounds that are associated with mating and reproduction. Males produce very loud, low frequency clicks when accompanying a breeding group of females. Photo courtesy Hal Whitehead laboratory, Dalhousie University

Pinnipeds have also been reported to use sound in reproductive advertisement displays. Bearded seals and ring seals have been recorded singing during the breeding season. Weddell seals produce trills during the breeding season that have been associated with the defense of territories. Even walruses use sound in mating rituals. Male walruses make a series of knocks, whistles, and loud breathing sounds at the surface. They then make knocks and bell-like sounds during dives.

Weddell seals produce trills during the breeding season. These sounds are associated with males defending their territories and fighting over females. Photo courtesy of Stacy Kim, NSF Antarctic Biology Class

Additional Resources
• Hawaii Humpback Study

For more information on how specific marine animals communicate using sound, use the following links:
Marine Mammals	Fish	Invertebrates