Vocalizations
Vocalizations
provide a useful window on larger patterns of behavior in social
species. Its study, in the case of African wild dogs, however,
has lagged behind other scientific concerns. Wild dogs have
been classified among the most social of all canids.
One important way this is expresed is in the variety of sounds
they make while interacting, some of which are unique. Its repertoire
is also one of the most complex in Canidae.
Short-range vocalizations accompany many group interactions
and appear to play an important role in the formation and maintenance
of bonds. Vocal and social complexity is also displayed in the
mixing of different sound types to convey ambivalence.
Preceding
a hunt, pack members typically rally in at least one greeting
ceremony before setting off. It usually begins with a single
dog running up to one or more dogs with head held shoulder height,
mouth agape, and ears folded back, often while whimpering or
whining. During a high-intensity ceremony many other different
kinds of sounds are made, including squeals and high-pitched
bird-like sounds called "twitters."
When filtering through thick bush pursuing prey, pack members
often become separated and sometimes call to reunite. These
repetitive contact calls or "hoos"
are short and low-pitched. They are delivered with the head
held lower than the shoulders and frequently while running.
In contrast, wolf howls are mostly long unbroken sounds delivered
with the muzzle held high while standing still.
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