Elephants exhibit 20 complex greeting rituals, unveils study
A recent study led by Vesta Eleuteri from the University of Vienna, Austria, has unveiled intricate greeting behaviors among African savannah elephants in Zimbabwe's Jafuta Reserve. The research reveals that these greetings depend on factors such as the elephants' sex and whether they are looking at each other. Eleuteri explained that elephants live in what is known as a "fission-fusion" society, where they separate and reunite after varying periods, which could range from hours to days or even months.
Study identifies 20 movements in elephant greetings
The study, published in Communications Biology, identified approximately 20 movements associated with elephant greetings. These movements are coupled with specific sounds such as rumbles, roars, and trumpets. Eleuteri noted that elephants seem to be aware of what other elephants can see. She mentioned that they tended to utilize visual gestures when their partner was actively observing them, whereas they opted for tactile gestures when their partner's attention was elsewhere.
Role of smell in elephant greetings explored
In addition to visual and auditory signals, smell also plays a significant role in elephant greetings. Elephants may release body waste or secretions from a special gland as part of their greeting rituals. These tactile gestures involve touching other elephants and are part of a broader range of behaviors that include spreading their ears or showing their behinds, according to Eleuteri's research.
Gender differences in elephant greetings highlighted
The study also underscored differences between male and female elephant greetings. Female elephants from different family groups often form "bond groups" and use special greeting ceremonies to announce and strengthen these bonds. Conversely, male elephants primarily use greetings to alleviate potential hostility, frequently involving smelling each other and reaching with their trunks, as per Eleuteri's findings.
Chemical information plays key role in elephant greetings
Eleuteri emphasized the significance of chemical information in elephant greetings. The temporal gland, located midway between the eye and the ear, releases a substance called "temporin" during greetings. This substance contains information about an elephant's condition. Eleuteri stated that elephant body wastes carry chemical information crucial for elephants, such as the individual's identity, reproductive status, and even emotional state.
