Individual differences in acoustic parameters of extracted parts of Japanese Black calf vocalizations after weaning

Abstract

This study compared the acoustic parameters of vocalization in the common part of Japanese Black calves after weaning. These vocalizations were classified using waveform shapes and spectrograms. In addition, the acoustic parameters were quantified using Praat acoustic analysis software. Differences in fundamental frequency (mean, minimum, and maximum), intensity (mean, minimum, and maximum), and formants (1–5) were compared among calf vocalizations. All acoustic parameters differed among calf vocalizations, according to a one-way analysis of variance. A principal component analysis revealed three main components with the first component correlating strongly and positively with the fundamental frequency (mean, minimum, and maximum). Therefore, the fundamental frequency had the greatest influence on individual differences in calf vocalization after weaning. In addition, the extraction method used here appears to be effective for investigating individual differences in calf vocalization. However, the percentage of correct answer by discriminant analysis was 71% in this study. Therefore, it is necessary to improve the discrimination accuracy.

Journal of Warm Regional Society of Animal Science, Japan 68 （1）: 31-37, 2025