What are the animals saying?

Humans communicate with other humans in many different ways. The most common ways are speaking and writing. But we also communicate with body language and facial expressions. Non-human animals can also express themselves in many ways. Let’s look at some of the ways animals communicate.

  1. Sound or vocalizations
  2. Smell (scents and odors)
  3. Body movement or pose
  4. Color
  5. Facial expressions

Why do animals communicate?

  1. to claim territory (the area they live in)
  2. to find members of their group
  3. to win a mate
  4. to share food resources with their group
  5. to warn others of danger
  6. to teach young
  7. to strengthen group or individual relationships
  8. to drive off predators or unwanted guest

There are many reasons why animals communicate. Think of some ways you have seen and heard animals communicate.

  1. Name some animals that communicate with sounds or vocalizations.


Listen for these animal sounds at the zoo. Many of the apes are very vocal. The gibbons and siamangs calls can be heard throughout the zoo. They produce these loud calls to announce their territory, warn others of danger, or communicate with their mates. Flamingos make a honking noise to keep group members together.
Lemur
2. Name some animals that use scents to communicate.


Many of the zoo animals communicate through scents or odors. Most cats spray a scent to show their home area. Lemurs also mark their territory with scents. The sloth uses scents to attract a mate or girlfriend.
Iguana
3. Name some animals that communicate with body movements or a pose.


Animals at the zoo often communicate this way. If a gorillas stares at you; it is threat.
If a chimpanzee throws dirt at you; he is only protecting his family and home. An iguana may bob his head up and down to attract a girl iguana. Cobras raise their body and spread their hood to scare off unwanted guest.
Humming bird
4. Name some animals that communicate with color.


Many male birds have brighter colored feathers than females. Why? They need to attract a mate. Also, colors can mean an animal is poisonous or can look poisonous. For example, the monarch butterfly’s bright colors warn off potential predators.
Chimpanzee
5. Name some animals that communicate with facial expressions.


The chimpanzee has many facial expressions we recognize. If a chimpanzees bottom and top teeth are showing, the chimp is scared or angry. If only the bottom teeth are showing the chimp is having fun or relaxed.

Look for animals communicating at the zoo or in your own yard. Think about what they may be trying to say. Talk about it with your friends. Check out books or look on the internet to learn more about animal communication.



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