Beluga Whales may be jiggling their melons to communicate

The animal kingdom boasts an incredible range of communication methods. From the flashing lights of mantis shrimp to the elaborate dances of birds-of-paradise, creatures have developed unique ways to express themselves. But there’s one contender for the most peculiar communicator: the beluga whale.

Belugas, like other toothed whales, have a fascinating organ on their forehead called a melon. This bulbous protrusion has puzzled scientists for years, with theories ranging from the bizarre to the practical (sound generation and echolocation being the current favorite). However, a recent study suggests the melon might have another hidden talent: acting as a visual communication tool.

Belugas have unusually large and flexible melons, thanks to specialized facial muscles. This allows them to alter the shape of their heads! But why this head-flaunting behavior?