Possibly a threat signal, tail slapping moight continue for long periods of time. Their intricate vocalisations range from high squeaks to low, guttural growls. Songs are produced by moving air back and forth through body passages. While all whales vocalise, only males are believed to sing. The song might function as a sexual display, advertising the presence of a breeding male and keeping a family group together.
Analysis shows the sounds produced are organised into long sequences.
Each sequence normally lasts 10-15 minutes and can be repeated without a pause for hours. Whale song is heard in Hervey Bay. Sequences are arranged into cycles characteristic of a particular whale population. Songs evolve a little over time but every change is eventually incorporated into the current sequence. These haunting sounds can travel kilometres under water and can be heard above the surface through the hulls of vessels.