Outside magazine published a wonderful article by Tim Zimmermann in September 2012, describing the research of Denise Herzing (of the Wild Dolphin Project) into a specific pod of Atlantic spotted dolphin in the Bahamas. Among her research interests are attempting to establish communication between dolphins and humans, by synthesising the clicking sounds that these animals use to communicate. In order to do this, the researchers are first working to identify patterns of sound used by the dolphins, with the aim of decoding the patterns and “translating” their speech.
It’s an ambitious, exciting experiment. I think it appeals to me because nowhere is there any hint of wild-eyed bushy-haired fanaticism, or a secretly held dream that the dolphins “have so much to share with us” or whispers that they are expected to be purveyors of interplanetary wisdom. Dolphins are highly intelligent creatures, but they also spend an inordinate amount of time trying to have sex with one another (I can’t decide whether this confirms their intelligence, or happens in spite of it). The scientists do not seem (from this brief article) to be harbouring any expectations of enjoying particular avenues of discussion with the dolphins. This is important for good science, and in stark contrast to the musicians described in Thousand Mile Song, who are bent on imposing their musicality on whales but exhibit little respect for the very creatures they try to engage.
The article is a dreamy read that makes me want to run away and become a dolphin scientist (much as Dolphin Confidential did). Read the full piece here.
