Calls that sound the same time after time are called stereotyped calls. Although scientists have noted that there is some type of ordering or structure to the calls, a dialect is not the same thing as a language. Pods that associate with one another may share certain calls, but the vocal repertories of each pod remain distinct enough that scientists can identify pods by the sounds they make. An analysis of calls of Icelandic and Norwegian killer whale pods revealed 24 and 23 discrete calls, respectively, with no evidence that the two pods shared calls. Killer whales that are separated by great geographic distances have completely different dialects.
Bioacoustic studies can be an important means of tracking pod movements.
If they provide a reliable index of genetic variability, they can also become a useful management tool. D. Social Behavior. Killer whales in a pod appear to establish strong social bonds. Behavior studies suggest that certain animals prefer associating with one another. As with most species, a social hierarchy exists within a group of killer whales.