African elephants call each other by unique names, new study shows
NBCJun 18
The Facts
According to a study published in the journal Science on Thursday, marmoset monkeys communicate with one another by name, a behavior hitherto observed in only elephants and dolphins, besides human beings.
A team of scientists from Israel's Hebrew University found marmosets using special vocal calls, or "phee calls," to "label and address specific individuals."
The Spin
Narrative A
This major discovery suggests there were precursors for language development in non-human primates. It also challenged the notion that communicating with each other by name is a uniquely human trait. This ability serves practical and emotional purposes across species besides allowing individuals to track and address social companions.
Narrative B
Anthropomorphism can lead to misunderstandings of animal behavior and inappropriate interactions with wildlife. While certain species, like primates and elephants, show behaviors that appear more "human-like," it's crucial to recognize that animal cognition and emotions may be fundamentally different from those of humans.