Speaking in a strange voice when talking to a baby is obviously not unique to humans. In fact, according to a study published in the journal Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciencesdolphin mothers would modify their “whistle” when communicating with their infant, making it more childlike.
The “mamanais” is also used in dolphins
“Mamanais” – or “parentais” – is the name given to the particular language parents use to address their child. Sharper, more childish, this way of speaking is used, sometimes even without us realizing it, with children. And, surprisingly, so do some animals, such as dolphins, but also zebra finches, a species of bird with an orange beak.
But why do dolphins—and humans—speak mothernese to their offspring? According to the scientific study and the researchers, who analyzed the acoustic recordings of 19 female dolphins in Sarasota Bay in the United States, this very particular way of communicating would facilitate learning and attract the attention of the little one. If you want to hear an example, it’s on the site of the Woods Hole Oceanography The institutions let it happen.
Listen to the dolphins’ whistles to understand their language
Laela Sayigh, biologist of the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institute and co-author of the study, this mother tongue “It’s very similar to what human mothers do when they talk high-pitched to their babies “. She continues: “ This certainly suggests that motherese probably has a function, although we are unable to prove it. “.
As for Nicole El Haddad, also co-author of the study, she specifies that ” this study adds new evidence regarding the similarities between dolphins and humans. That said, I hope this intriguing discovery will raise awareness among the general public about the protection of this charismatic species. “.
Indeed, as Frants Havmand Jensen, scientist co-author of the study points out, the purpose of this study is to preserve and understand dolphins: “ we develop tools to hear each animal’s unique whistles. If we could reliably detect subtle changes in whistles when baby dolphins are present, then we could use this to understand the reproductive success and overall health of wild dolphin populations. “.
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Source: Madmoizelle
Mary Crossley is an author at “The Fashion Vibes”. She is a seasoned journalist who is dedicated to delivering the latest news to her readers. With a keen sense of what’s important, Mary covers a wide range of topics, from politics to lifestyle and everything in between.
