Scientists are increasingly using artificial intelligence to analyze and decode animal communication, offering new insights into the complexity of non-human languages and potentially transforming our relationship with nature. As reported by Deutsche Welle, AI tools like DeepSqueak are allowing researchers to process vast amounts of animal vocalization data, helping to uncover patterns and meanings in species ranging from rodents to dolphins.
Throughout history, we have seen animals interacting in ways that resemble communication. Of course, they have methods and systems for relaying information1. The challenge for us all is to understand the way they communicate. We hear their sounds and signals and may think we know what they're trying to say, but do we? Biologists have been gathering data for centuries but don't have all the answers2. This is where AI may be able to break the code. Because of its ability to gather massive amounts of data, it may be possible for humanity to understand better exactly what animals are trying to say to each other—and us34.
One of the greatest issues in decoding animal communication surrounds the sheer complexity of the sounds they make. For example, consider dolphins—they are known to make numerous sound variations that can differ based on their goals, family groups, and other variables12. The same is true of birds, whales, and frogs, whose sounds can change based on the time of year or season. Human researchers can dive into data manually, but now with AI, they can process massive amounts of data in real time while spotting patterns that can't be deciphered by the human mind alone1. A recent example of AI's work in nature is the study of sperm whales that communicate through "clicks" that are both structured and rhythmic. Researchers have been able to capture the sounds and then use natural language processing algorithms to seek out patterns and attach meanings to them23. The hope in, what is called Project CETI, is to find the meaning behind their sounds so that we can better understand what they are saying to each other and to other species.
Bees are known for their dance referred to as the "Waggle Dance." This is how they communicate to share information on the location of food sources with their hive members. The dance includes movements that are so precise they can lead others to a specific spot of food in relation to the sun1. Scientists have a basic understanding of what a bee's dance means, they are now using AI to help them understand in more depth2. By using AI, scientists have developed models that can look deeply into the nuances of a bee's dance while tracking thousands of other bees across numerous hives. This can be done constantly, over a long period, which is far more than a human ever could observe3. This technology can also take into consideration what's happening in the environment and gain insights that can help in conservation efforts and strategies4.
Beyond the sounds that animals make, AI is also looking deeply into non-vocal forms of communication that can include everything from body language to visual signals. AI can gather data on their gestures, body postures, facial expressions, interactions with other animals, and more.12 The data gathered via video can use vision technology to track their expressions and movements so that scientists can uncover a new understanding of what they're trying to say.3 It may even be able to help us all better understand how human communication evolved.4
Gaining key insights into animal communication has numerous real-world applications. This is especially true surrounding conservation. Scientists believe that as humans continue to cause harm to the natural world, it may be possible to better understand them and even communicate with them. If we can better predict their behaviors, we can help take action to keep them safe and improve the health of their habitats.12 For example, AI is already being used by science to protect endangered species. In Africa, scientists have used AI to look deeply into elephant vocalizations, body movements, and behaviors. Their discoveries are helping them better predict elephant migrations while helping to identify their key threats, including food and water shortages.3 Also, in the Amazon rainforest, AI is being used to monitor the sounds of the forest in general to detect destructive logging activities. AI can even analyze the sounds of chainsaws and other sounds that could be indicative of illegal activity.4
The use of AI in decoding animal communication has some people concerned. A question that is commonly discussed is, what if we are to fully understand how animals "speak?' How should we use this knowledge? Will we only use the knowledge to protect them, or can it be used for commercial gain? Also, it must be asked, do we have a right to know what animals are saying to one another? The key is that humanity must use AI with good intentions. The powers that be must carefully explore the potential downfalls of using AI in nature and create a code of conduct to protect both animals and their environments.
While we are still in the early stages of using AI to better understand how animals communicate, it's safe to say that lots of progress has been made so far. From a better understanding of how sperm whales communicate and decipher the dance of bees, the technology just may successfully understand what they have to say to each other12. The future of AI and animal communication offers so many possibilities. As it continues to advance, we as human beings just may be able to engage in meaningful "conversations" with the animals we adore34.