Bowhead whales (Balaena mysticetus) are copycats, imitating sounds heard in their environment

  • Samuel M. Llobet Research Department, Norwegian Polar Institute, Fram Centre, Tromsø, Norway
  • Heidi Ahonen Research Department, Norwegian Polar Institute, Fram Centre, Tromsø, Norway
  • Christian Lydersen Research Department, Norwegian Polar Institute, Fram Centre, Tromsø, Norway
  • Kit M. Kovacs Research Department, Norwegian Polar Institute, Fram Centre, Tromsø, Norway
DOI: https://doi.org/10.33265/polar.v45.12562
Keywords: Arctic marine mammal, complex vocal learning, song evolution, Svalbard, vocal imitation, mimicry

Abstract

In this study, we provide evidence that bowhead whales (Balaena mysticetus) imitate bearded seal (Erignathus barbatus) calls, integrating them into their own elaborate songs, demonstrating this cetacean species’ capacity for complex vocal learning. Bowhead whales also appear to imitate additional species—narwhal (Monodon monoceros)—and even environmental noise (ice sounds) in the Svalbard area. This behaviour likely reflects evolutionary pressure related to song diversity, mating success and ecological adaptation.

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Published
2026-04-10
How to Cite
Llobet , S. M., Ahonen , H., Lydersen , C., & Kovacs , K. M. (2026). Bowhead whales (<em>Balaena mysticetus</em&gt;) are copycats, imitating sounds heard in their environment. Polar Research, 45. https://doi.org/10.33265/polar.v45.12562
Issue
Vol. 45 (2026)
Section
Research Notes
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