Echolocation

Porpoise echolocation

Two Ph.D. candidates are currently studying the Fjord&Bælt Centre’s porpoises. Meike Linnenschmidt, from the University of Southern Denmark, is studying how porpoise hearing works during echolocation. Danuta Wisniewska, from Aarhus University, is studying how a porpoise uses sonar during active echolocation.

Both studies are important for improving our ability to understand how porpoises use sounds to find prey and navigate underwater.

Danuta (left), Meike (centre) and animal trainer Janni (right). Photo: Solvin Zankl

Eigil at work next to his listening post. Suction electrodes are used to measure his
hearing when he listens for sounds. Photo: Solvin Zankl

Using sonar, Sif can select which of the two balls is made of aluminium. The other ball is
made of plastic. She has suction cups over her eyes so she cannot cheat by using her sight.
Photo: Solvin Zankl