Pulsated-Trumpet

Longish trumpeting (~1-2 seconds in duration) that is expelled in a sequence of breathy pulses that are modulated in frequency contour. These trumpets are emitted as the elephant moves at a fast gait during highly spirited or exuberant play and is associated with Floppy-Running behavior.

References: Poole 1996; Poole & Granli 2004; Poole 2011. (Full reference list)

This behavior occurs in the following context(s): Social Play, Protest & Distress

Pulsated-Trumpet

Context: Protest & Distress (1)

A four year old male has become separated from his family. We see him stand with Periscope-Trunk and he does a bit of Head-Swinging as if trying to localize a sound. It is likely that someone has called him. He takes off running and giving shrill Pulsated-Trumpets that are typical of a lost or separated calf. (Amboseli, Kenya)