 Reference Base  The mammals of the southern African subregion, new edition |
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| Location: |
World |
| Subject: |
Behaviour - Social Behaviour |
| Species: |
White Rhino |
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Vocalisations and subtle displays are used for direct communication; Owen-Smith (1973) recognised 10 of the former and 15 of the latter. Territorial bulls are normally silent, even in encounters, but occasionally may snort when another moves nearby. During courtship of a female, they may squeal when trying to block a female in oestrus from leaving their territory. Other members of the group may snort or snarl, which is a sign for others to keep their distance; they pant, when maintaining contact or as a sign to join up; shriek, as an attack inhibiting signal; squeal for eliciting protection or as a distress signal in calves; or puff when suddenly alarmed.
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