Decoding Animal Communication through AI

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Scientists have used AI to decode millions of bat vocalizations, revealing that bats have dialects passed down from generation to generation. Similarly, AI has decoded individual orca calls, showing that orcas also pass down dialects. This showcases that animal communication is more complex than previously thought, with creatures like bats and orcas using learned communication methods similar to humans.

Artificial intelligence is powerful, but what about natural intelligence? This hour, TED speakers explore the intrinsic genius in animal language, insect behavior, plant anatomy and our immune system. Guests include neuroscientist Greg Gage, computational neuroscientist Frances Chance, social psychoneuroimmunologist Keely Muscatell and environmental researcher Karen Bakker.

We want to dedicate this episode to Bakker who passed away in August 2023, only a few months after giving her TED Talk. Her research and legacy continue to inspire.

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