Research shows elephants use specific vocal labels for other elephants, functioning much like names. These low-frequency rumbles are not imitations of the receiver’s voice. Instead, they are unique sounds that signal who is being addressed. Elephants respond more strongly when their own “name” is used. This indicates intentional, targeted communication rather than random calls.
It matters because naming is considered a cornerstone of complex language. This pushes elephants closer to humans in terms of communication sophistication.
It also shows elephant societies are structured, relational, and socially aware. These findings deepen the moral importance of protecting elephant social groups.
Baby elephants learn these vocal labels over time, not instinctively. This means elephant communication is partly learned, not just inherited.
Colorado State University (colostate.edu)