Study - Whales May Pick Mates Based On Songs - AFP

[hatrack]

It's long been thought that singing is used by whales to attract mates or repel rivals, but new Australian research indicates the serenades may be the basis on which the females select their sexual partners.

University of Queensland researchers said Wednesday that they believe the male's songs are part of an elaborate courtship ritual between humpback whales as they appear to be directed more towards females than to warn off rival males.

"The male singers are spending a lot more time singing with the females," said researcher Joshua Smith. While he cannot say the songs attract the females, they do facilitate sex.

"Certainly there's evidence for courtship. It seems to certainly be a courtship display that facilitates mating interactions with females," he said.


EDIT

http://www.terradaily.com/reports/Whales_Choose_Mates_Based_On_Singing.html

[Demeter]

1. I Wonder If That Works Any Better Than What I've Tried n/t

[Dead_Parrot]

2. Worked for me...

I met Mrs _P in a metal nightclub. Only trouble is we'll have to play "The Ace of Spades" at out golden wedding gig.