Several reports from whaling vessels, dating back to the 19th century, describe sperm whales using their heads to push, hit (and even sink) boats and ships but we didn't know if they also did this to each other.
Alecburslem
Using the overhead vantage point offered by drones, we were able to capture headbutting on video, as well as other examples of head-led contact of varying force, raising intriguing questions about the function of such behaviour and its consequences for group cohesion and social dynamics.
New publication!
'Headbutting Behavior Between Sperm Whales Documented Using Unoccupied Aerial Vehicles'
Out in @marinemammalogy.bsky.social in collaboration with @lrendell.bsky.social, @azwhlab.bsky.social and @asociaciontursiops.bsky.social.
doi.org/10.1111/mms....
Alecburslem
Alecburslem
ASA is supporting a Marine Bioacoustics Summer Course for high school juniors & seniors in San Diego County!
Scripps Institution of Oceanography
July 13–17, 2026
Hands-on learning about marine mammals, sound & conservation
Apply: https://smmiles.org/upcoming-programs
Deadline: April 30, 2026
