Some vocal distinctive features used by gelada monkeys

Abstract

Recordings have been made of gelada monkeys freely vocalizing during normal social interchanges in captivity. Spectrographic analyses and perceptual evaluations of the recordings suggest that these primates produce a greater range of vocal distinctive contrasts than have been observed previously. In particular, evidence is presented which suggests that gelada monkeys are capable of producing three distinctive voice qualities, a wide range of vowel qualities, and a set of consonants that differ in manner of articulation (glides, a fricative, plosives, nasals) and in place of articulation (labial, postdental, velar). Subject Classification: [43]70.40, [43]70.20; [43]80.50.