Howling as a Means of Communication in Timber Wolves

Abstract

The communicatory function of howling was studied in three adult male timber wolves (Canis lupus). Approximately 700 howls were subjected to spectrographic and auditory analysis. The fundamental frequency of howls was divided into beginning, mid-section, and ending, and each section was studied separately. Harmonic features were also examined. Much variation was found within the howls of each individual. However, unique features were found in all howls of two wolves, of potential value in individual recognition.