Scientists have been looking for decades for non-human intelligence and have turned to space in the hopes of finding it. However, recent observations on our very own planet could show us an intelligent species that is trying to communicate in a unique, non-verbal way.
This communication is in the form of ocean bubbles and seems to be a very deliberate action caused by an animal we might have sorely overlooked.
SETI
The Search for Extraterrestrial Intelligence Institute, or SETI, is known for looking for signs of alien communications but has most recently decided to search a bit closer to home – our very oceans.
SETI embarked on this research venture with the University of California and Davis to look at some strange underwater behavior that could represent intelligent life that wants to communicate with humans.
Humpback Whales
The strange signals that the researchers have found aren’t some forgotten species or made by artificial structures, but rather from an ocean giant that’s been well-documented for centuries – the humpback whale.
Humans have observed humpback whales for a long time and noted their curious calls in the deep water. However, recently their behavior has shifted, and they may be trying to communicate with humans through smoke ring-like bubbles in the water.
Bubble Rings
While bubble rings themselves are nothing new to marine mammals, how they are used is not new. Humpback whales usually use these bubbles to attract mates or to capture their prey, but now they are making them when they are near humans, notably ships and swimmers.
These bubbles are different and happen during calm encounters rather than the pressure of capturing prey or finding a mate.
Intentional Displays
Researchers conducted studies between 2019 and 2023, and what they found was startling. 11 different whales made nearly 40 bubble rings across 12 encounters with humans. These events occurred after the whales voluntarily approached humans, perhaps driven by curiosity.
In each case, there was no prey nearby or other explanations for the bubble rings other than the intention of trying to get attention. They acted playful, calm, and focused.
Communication In The Sea
While humpbacks communicate to their own species through whale calling and songs, these rings are distinct forms of non-verbal communication and are displayed in a unique context when done in the presence of researchers and people out on the water.
This behavior isn’t typically seen without the presence of humans, except for mating and prey purposes. Further study could change previous notions about both communication and perceived intelligence in the animal kingdom.
Why Are They Doing It?
While the reasoning behind this behavior cannot be pinned down with certainty, there are many leading theories, including anything from playful curiosity to a real effort to get some information across to us.
Since the behavior is an adaptation only seen recently, many scientists believe that the whales are testing the waters by sending us signals and observing how we react.
Aiding Extraterrestrial Research
SETI says that by studying these whales, their research efforts for extraterrestrial intelligence could be refined. The humpback whales may be trying non-verbal and experimental ways of reaching out to us, which intelligent life elsewhere could try in a similar fashion.
This highlights the need for expansive approaches to what constitutes attempts at communication.
Twain, The Whale
Many experiments have been conducted in the effort to find out more about humpback whales and the way they communicate. One such experiment played whale calls to a humpback named Twain.
She communicated back with consistency and similar vocalizations and even approached the research vessel. Scientists kept up this dialogue with Twain for 20 minutes, showcasing that she had the capacity for a back-and-forth “conversation.”
Changing Our Understanding Of Intelligence
Discovering and studying this intentional communication exhibited by humpback whales could change our understanding of intelligence. Humpback whales are showcasing an effort in interspecies communication through creative means, which are usually only traits reserved for sophisticated animals.
Before we can find intelligent life off of our planet, we should first try to understand how other species engage in communication on Earth. With the help of the humpback whale, we can ensure that no subtle signs of communication from the cosmos are missed.
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