Leopard Seal Songs Resemble Human Nursery Rhymes

Leopard seals, solitary apex predators in Antarctic waters, are known for their distinctive underwater vocalizations, often described as "trills" and "hoots." Recent research has revealed that these songs exhibit structural similarities to human nursery rhymes, characterized by a predictable and repetitive pattern. This discovery suggests that the seals' vocalizations may serve multiple purposes, including attracting mates and establishing territory. The study highlights the complexity of leopard seal communication and its potential parallels with human musical structures.