10 of the Loudest Animals on Earth

The Blue Whale: The Loudest Animal Overall

The Blue Whale (Balaenoptera musculus) holds the distinction of being the loudest animal overall in the animal kingdom. Despite the common misconception that the Sperm Whale (Physeter macrocephalus) is the loudest, the Blue Whale's vocalizations exceed those of the Sperm Whale in terms of sheer volume.

Other Loud Animals

Sperm Whales

While the Blue Whale may be the loudest overall, the Sperm Whale still deserves recognition for having the loudest clicks and codas among all animals. These sounds can reach a staggering 230 decibels, comparable to the sound of a jet engine.

Howler Monkeys

Howler Monkeys (genus Alouatta) are known for their distinctive howls, which can reach up to 140 decibels. These howls serve as long-distance communication signals, allowing males to attract mates and establish territory.

Lions

Lions (Panthera leo) have powerful roaring calls that can be heard up to five miles away. These roars are used for territorial defense, communication, and attracting mates.

Elephants

Elephants (family Elephantidae) communicate through a variety of low-frequency sounds, including trumpets, rumbles, and infrasonic calls. These calls can carry over long distances and help maintain social cohesion within elephant herds.

Tigers

Tigers (Panthera tigris) are capable of producing a wide range of vocalizations, including roars, grunts, and growls. Their roars can reach up to 114 decibels and are used to assert dominance, defend territory, and attract mates.

Hippopotamuses

Hippopotamuses (Hippopotamus amphibius) produce a variety of loud vocalizations, including snorts, grunts, and roars. These vocalizations are used for territorial defense, communication within the herd, and attracting mates.

Scarlet Macaws

Scarlet Macaws (Ara macao) are among the loudest birds in the world. Their raucous calls can reach up to 100 decibels and serve as long-distance communication signals within flocks.

Cicadas

Cicadas (family Cicadidae) are known for their distinctive buzzing songs, which can reach up to 100 decibels. These songs are produced by male cicadas to attract mates.

Blue Jays

Blue Jays (Cyanocitta cristata) are among the loudest songbirds in North America. Their raucous calls can reach up to 70 decibels and are used for territorial defense and attracting mates.