Motor constraints on vocal development in a songbird
Article Abstract:
The development and evolution of trill structure in the songs of swamp sparrows, Melospiza georgiana, is influenced by motor constraints on vocal production. Sparrows presented with conspecific song models with increased syllable repetition, produce inaccurate imitations due to motor constraints on vocal performance. The inaccuracy is not due to perceptual or memory-based constraints. Some song imitations lack trill tempo and syllable composition while others have pauses interrupting the songs. The vocal constraints may give rise to a new form of song syntax in the birds.
Publication Name: Animal Behaviour
Subject: Zoology and wildlife conservation
ISSN: 0003-3472
Year: 1996
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Calibration of song learning targets during vocal ontogeny in swamp sparrows, Melospiza georgiana
Article Abstract:
An attempt is made to test the hypothesis that sesnorimotor learning provides birds with an opportunity to calibrate their vocal learning targets, in the event that bird's own vocal proficiency differs from that required to successfully reproduce song models to which it is exposed. The findings reveal that caliation during sensorimotor learning can, over the long term, act as both a stabilizing and a creative mechanism in song evolution.
Publication Name: Animal Behaviour
Subject: Zoology and wildlife conservation
ISSN: 0003-3472
Year: 2004
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