Dolphin Communication: Fact and Fiction 

Wednesday August 16, 2023, Woods Hole Oceanographic Institute (WHOI)

Reception and Presentation 4:00 - 6:00 p.m.

Laela Sayigh, Ph.D. - Woods Hole Oceanographic Institute Associate Professor and Researcher

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When we are on or near the ocean we are excited to see dolphins surface, and through the popular press we know they are intelligent and have the ability to communicate with each other.  Dr. Sayigh, an expert in the behavior of dolphins and whales, has spent many years with a cohort of dolphins in Sarasota and was the lead researcher in a recently published study of dolphin mother and offspring communication.  Researchers found that dolphins use "motherese"  a unique and different way of communicating to their offspring to get their attention, bond and develop language skills.   With humans we refer to it as "baby talk," and only a few species other than humans are known to communicate in this distinct way to their young offspring versus others.   Dr. Sayigh, who received her PhD from a joint MIT/WHOI program and her BA from the University of Pennsylvania, will discuss these findings and more from her long personal relationship with the Florida dolphins. 

Join HCCC at the beautiful Quisset Campus of WHOI on Vineyard Sound to learn more about our fascinating ocean neighbors and the work happening at this world renown institution in our community.  Woods Hole is the "leading, independent non-profit organization dedicated to ocean research, exploration and education." Tickets include a social hour at 4:00 with heavy hors d'oeuvres, followed by Dr. Sayigh's presentation and a Q and A session. 

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