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Do Sows Respond Differently to Calls Than Boars?

April 9, 2026

Quick Answer

Sows typically respond more reliably to softer, more feminine sounds, whereas boars often require more aggressive and dominant calls to elicit a response.

Sow Response to Calls

When calling for sows, it’s essential to use softer, more gentle sounds to mimic the vocalizations of a female bear. This could include using a high-pitched, raspy call or a soft, whining sound. Research suggests that sows are more likely to respond to calls that are in the 150-200 Hz frequency range, which is typically lower than the calls used for boars. For example, a caller might use a soft, raspy “hmm-hmm-hmm” sound repeated every 10-15 seconds to attract a sow. It’s also crucial to maintain a consistent pitch and volume to avoid startling the sow and causing her to flee.

Boar Response to Calls

When targeting boars, a more aggressive and dominant call is often necessary to elicit a response. This could include using a loud, raspy growl or a series of sharp, high-pitched yips. Research suggests that boars are more likely to respond to calls that are in the 250-350 Hz frequency range, which is typically higher than the calls used for sows. For example, a caller might use a loud, raspy “hrrr-hrrr-hrrr” sound repeated every 5-10 seconds to attract a boar. It’s also essential to vary the pitch and volume to mimic the vocalizations of a dominant bear, which can help to draw out a boar.

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