The owl’s call originates in its syrinx (the equivalent of the larynx in humans) and propagates away from the creature as a bubble-shaped emanation. The CymaScope principle shows us a slice through the sound bubble and this new technique allows the dynamic geometry of birdcalls to be studied in real time. Ornithologists commonly use spectrum analysis to analyze birdcalls, which displays the sonic energy graphically, however, the CymaScope is based on an analog principle in which the sounds are rendered visible by imprinting them onto the surface and sub surface of water. Imaging the barred owl’s call with a CymaScope represents an historic moment. With grateful thanks to interdisciplinary artist, Virginia Kistler, for commissioning this video. For more details visit https://www.cymascope.com/cyma_research/ornithology.html
