Dark habitats and bright birds illustrate the role of the environment in species divergence

Article Abstract:

Brighter species of warblers in the genus Phylloscopus live in darker habitats. This correlation between species differences in colour patterns and light intensity of the habitat was further examined. It is reported that colour patterns function to increase conspicuousness, and are used in intraspecific communication. The findings demonstrate that species divergence is caused by variation in the physical environment, regardless of the nature of the perceptual systems.

Research, Environmental aspects, Biodiversity, Habitats, Species diversity, Wood warblers

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Signals of need in parent-offspring communication and their exploitation by the common cuckoo

Article Abstract:

There are both visual and vocal components to the nestling begging displays of reed warblers (Acrocephalus scirpaceus) and their brood parasite, the common cuckoo (Cuculus canorus). Reed warbler parents are found to use both signals as indicators for provisioning rates, even when provisioning a single cuckoo in the nest. The cuckoo's rapid begging call encourages parents to work at their normal rate by compensating for the cuckoo's single gape visual display.

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Genetic evidence for female host-specific races of the common cuckoo

Article Abstract:

Research is presented concerning the evidence that host species specificity is controlled by a gene in the W sex chromosome of the female cuckoo. The switching of host species by cuckoos during their evolution is discussed.

Genetic aspects, Parasitic birds, Letter to the Editor

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