Simulation of Siberian tiger vocalization

Abstract

The excised larynx of a Siberian tiger, which died of natural causes, was studied on a laboratory bench. Pressure-flow relations were determined, as well as modes of vibration of the vocal pads. In addition, CT scans of the animal were made available (from previous health examinations), which allowed the vocal-tract airway to be quantified. The larynx and vocal tract-data were then used to simulate the sound production of the animal. Results showed that multiple tissue modes are excited to produce a tiger roar, and that the production is highly efficient for aerodynamic to acoustic energy conversion. Scaling factors for linear dimensions of the larynx and vocal tract are derived to compare the phonation of this large mammal to human phonation.