Science of Whales

Because certain layers of the sea conduct sound like a stethoscope, it's possible for a whale in Bermuda to have a conversation with a whale in Iceland or Africa according to this award-winning production that delves into the popular but little-understood world of whale vocalizations. Drawing on both recently declassified sonar technology from the U.S. Navy and new experiments in the ocean depths, Science of Whales looks at researchers who are beginning to explore how whales use their auditory capabilities to communicate, as well as the effects of manmade sounds on whale pods. Viewers will learn that the blue whale, with its huge larynx, produces low frequency sounds that would put the most annoying drive-by subwoofer to shame, while other whales (such as humpbacks and orcas) create beautiful higher frequency vocalizations unique to their pods that help whales identify each other, and avoid (among other things) inbreeding that would weaken the species. Combining beautiful whale footage and fascinating commentary, this is recommended. Aud: H, C, P. (C. Block)