The Dance of the Wandering Albatross II. Acoustic Signals

Abstract

Wandering Albatross Diomedea exulans acoustic signals were studied on the Crozet Archipelago (Southern Indian Ocean). The first description of nine signals (comprising five vocalisations) with their characteristics is given. The repertoire of acoustic signals found in the Wandering Albatross is compared with that of other species of albatrosses. Sexual differences were apparent in the main vocalisation, the 'Yapping' call, performed between mates. The strong links between visual and acoustic repertoires are discussed and the biological function of acoustic signals is proposed.