The Nature of Things

Animal Communication (1x17)

: 26, 1961

An examination of the various forms and modes of animal communication. Sound, colour, odour, pattern, and movement together or separately can tell animals much about their enemies, the source of food and the mood of a prospective mate. John Livingston, executive director of the Audubon Society of Canada, explains what constitutes communication in animal communities. Dr. Bruce Falls of the Zoology Department at the University of Toronto describes how scientists have worked to understand the nature of bird songs and calls. He demonstrates equipment he uses to study bird calls and shows how birds stake out their nesting territories by means of their calls.