Elephant Communication and Seismic Signals

The video explores the unique communication abilities of wild elephants, focusing on their potential to detect seismic vibrations through their feet. Dr. Caitlyn O'Connell-Rodwell conducts experiments at the Oakland Zoo to test this hypothesis, using seismic shakers and an African elephant named Donna. The study reveals that elephants can sense low-frequency rumbles through the ground, which may serve as long-distance communication. This discovery challenges traditional views on animal communication and suggests that elephants use their feet to send urgent messages over vast distances.

What unique ability do wild elephants possess?

• They can change their skin color.

• They can appear at the right place and time.

• They can fly over mountains.

• They can swim across oceans.

What was Dr. Caitlyn O'Connell-Rodwell's hypothesis about elephant communication?

• Elephants use their feet to detect vibrations.

• Elephants use their tails to send signals.

• Elephants communicate through their trunks.

• Elephants communicate by changing colors.

What are the low-frequency vocalizations produced by elephants called?

• Rumbles

• Barks

• Whistles

• Chirps

How do seismic waves generated by elephant rumbles travel?

• Through trees

• Through water

• Through the ground

• Through the air

What was the purpose of the experiment with Donna the elephant?

• To test her speed in running

• To test her ability to paint

• To test her response to seismic signals

• To test her memory skills

How does Donna indicate a positive seismic signal during the experiment?

• By wagging her tail

• By lifting her foot

• By trumpeting loudly

• By shaking her head

What role does Colleen Kinsley play in the experiment with Donna?

• She observes from a distance.

• She operates the seismic shakers.

• She gives Donna treats for correct responses.

• She records the data.

What part of the elephant's body acts like a drum head to sense vibrations?

• The ears

• The tail

• The trunk

• The feet

How are seismic waves felt by elephants transmitted to their ears?

• Through muscle conduction

• Through bone conduction

• Through water conduction

• Through air conduction

Why might elephants choose to stomp their feet instead of vocalizing a rumble?

• To conserve energy

• To send a message over a longer distance

• To scare away predators

• To attract mates