The role of the vocalization of harbour seal (Phoca vitulina) pups in preventing separation from their mothers

• Main Author: Perry, Elizabeth Anne, 1957-
• Other Authors: Memorial University of Newfoundland. Dept. of Biology; Memorial University of Newfoundland. Dept. of Psychology
• Format: Thesis
• Language: English
• Published: 1986
• Subjects: Harbor seal; Seals (Animals); Animal communication; Canada; harbor seal; harbour seal; Newfoundland studies; Phoca vitulina; University of Newfoundland
• Online Access: http://collections.mun.ca/cdm/ref/collection/theses2/id/233419

Thesis (M.Sc.)--Memorial University of Newfoundland, 1986. Biology and Psychology Bibliography: leaves 47-50. Interactions between harbour seal (Phoca vitulina concolor) mothers and pups were observed, and recordings were made of pup vocalizations, on the island of Miquelon near southeastern Newfoundland, Canada. Pup vocalizations were individually distinct on the basis of several physical parameters, most importantly the frequency of the major harmonic. These data and analyses of contextual variables indicated that the mothers might use these vocalizations for individual recognition of their offspring and for ensuring that contact is maintained. Calls can be transmitted simultaneously in air and underwater and it is hypothesized that differences between these versions of the calls increase the accuracy with which the mothers can localize their pups.