Lions Roar: AI Uncovers Secret Second Sound

Researchers from the University of Exeter have unveiled a previously unknown vocalization in African lions, dubbed the "intermediary roar." This discovery was made possible through the application of artificial intelligence, which analyzed recordings from Nyerere National Park in Tanzania. Unlike the familiar, powerful full-throated roar, the intermediary roar is described as a flatter sound with less pitch variation, and it always follows the full roar within a vocalization bout.

This new finding expands our knowledge of lion communication, which plays a crucial role in territorial signaling and social interactions. The AI-based methodology offers a more objective and accessible alternative to traditional human-led acoustic analysis. This advancement is particularly significant for conservationists, as the AI can now more reliably estimate lion population sizes and monitor individual animals within dwindling populations.

The potential applications of this AI technology extend beyond simply identifying different roars. It can distinguish individual lions, offering a powerful tool for wildlife management and the protection of this iconic species. The research highlights how innovative technology can significantly enhance our ability to study and conserve wildlife.