Chatty finches
Researchers found FoxP2 gene expressed in brain regions critical for song learning, similar to human brain. The study suggests that variations in the FoxP2 gene may have contributed to the development of language in humans.
Birds
Articles tagged with Birds
A bird 'language' gene pinpointed
Scientists have identified a key gene, FoxP2, that enables vocal learning in birds, which is similar to human language production. The researchers found that the gene is expressed in areas of the brain responsible for song production and learning, and its expression levels increase during times of song learning.
Bird's song may be linked to speech disorders
A UCLA study finds that FoxP1 and FoxP2 genes shared by humans and songbirds may play a critical role in human speech and speech disorders. The study suggests that understanding these genes could lead to new medications for speech disorders.
More evidence of major global extinctions
The research highlights the alarming rate of extinction among birds, with many species experiencing significant declines in population numbers. The study's findings suggest that birds are excellent indicators of global extinction rates, and their decline serves as a warning sign for the planet's overall health.
'We are the champions' – the new birdie song
Researchers found that tropical boubous sing the 'victory duet' more often after an invasion attempt than before or during playback of recordings. This rare context-specific birdsong is used to assert dominance and deter other birds from intruding into their territory.
Keeping populations of cerulean warbler healthy
The cerulean warbler's population decline is attributed to habitat loss and fragmentation in both breeding and winter ranges. An international collaboration, the Cerulean Warbler Technical Group, aims to develop a proactive conservation strategy through sound science and partnerships.
How lice and bird feathers stick together
Researchers found that small lice stick to small birds and big lice prefer big birds due to the optimal hiding space between individual 'barbs' in their feathers. The study suggests that size matters for parasites, with larger hosts supporting larger louse species.
World's largest forest birds may produce world's deepest bird calls
Researchers have discovered that three species of cassowaries can produce low-frequency sounds that may be similar to those made by dinosaurs. The birds' helmet-like casques are thought to serve a function in sound reception and could provide clues about dinosaur communication.
More than 700 threatened species remain completely unprotected, new study shows
A new study analyzing 11,000 mammal, amphibian and bird species reveals major gaps in the global protected area system, placing over 700 species at risk of extinction. The analysis highlights urgent conservation priorities for tropical areas, islands, and specific endangered species.
Name that tune
Researchers found that specific cells in the bird's brain become 'tuned' to what the bird is learning, responding strongly to familiar songs and motifs. The study suggests that experience modifies the brain to highlight important motifs, allowing birds to recognize individual songs.
More raccoons may mean fewer songbirds
A study by Kenneth Schmidt found that Illinois raccoon populations coincide with declines in low-nesting songbirds, with over 70% of these species dropping from the state's bird list. Raccoon habitat expansion and loss of top carnivores contribute to this decline.
Bright beaks provide honest look at male immune system, Science study says
New research links bright beak colors to healthier immune systems in male birds, with carotenoids playing a key role in conveying individual health. The studies provide the first direct evidence that males' flashy features accurately indicate their fitness.
Riparian birds can rebound after cows are gone
Researchers found that removing cows from riparian habitats in the arid southwest increased vegetation density by 4-6 times and boosted bird populations, including species of special concern. The study suggests that restoring these areas can have profound benefits for breeding birds in the region.
Crows alter their thieving behavior when dealing with kin or other birds
Researchers found that Northwestern crows use passive strategies when stealing from relatives and become aggressive when targeting non-relatives. The study, led by Renee Ha and James Ha, observed 55 birds over 2.5 years and found that kinship significantly affects crow behavior.
Talking to the animals?
A new study suggests that the brain's language centers may be identified using the genetic expression of certain brain receptors in vocal-learning birds and mammals. The research, led by neurobiologist Erich D. Jarvis, reveals a highly specialized pattern in the genetic expression of these receptors in songbirds capable of vocal learning.
Hikers may disturb breeding spotted owls
Researchers found that female Mexican Spotted Owls spent 60% less time on prey-handling activities with high hiking intensity. The study recommends protecting owl habitat during the nesting season by limiting hiking or establishing buffers around nest sites.
New study suggests missing link that explains how dinosaurs learned to fly
Scientists have discovered that ancient birds used a unique 'wing-assisted incline running' behavior to help them climb vertical surfaces, which may be the key to explaining how dinosaurs learned to fly. This behavior, found in modern-day birds, involves rapid movement of the front appendages to gain foot traction as it climbs.
Increasing biodiversity is not always best
A comparative study of plants and birds on oceanic islands found that invasive species outnumber native species, causing extinctions but increasing overall diversity. The total number of land bird species has remained relatively unchanged despite the loss of native species.
To thin or not to thin
Forest thinning may improve plant diversity and support animal habitats if done correctly, according to USGS-funded research. The study found that selective thinning of dense young forests can promote the growth of hardwoods, large trees, and old-growth characteristics.
Biodiversity conservation - no guarantee for shortcuts
A report highlights that protecting threatened and endemic species does not automatically ensure compliance with biodiversity conservation laws. The study found that this approach falls short in preserving other bird species, especially in their habitats of distribution.
Internet access to nature sounds and bird videos
Cornell University's Macaulay Library has gained access to digital sound recordings and high-definition video clips, enabling researchers, conservationists, and citizen-scientists to support ornithology projects. The new system provides streaming capabilities for sounds and video over the Internet and maintains all digital assets.
Sex and genetics: Why birds are unfaithful to their partners
An international team of scientists found that birds use alternative reproductive behaviors to avoid inbreeding depression when mates are genetically similar. Extra-pair paternity and quasi-parasitism occur at low frequencies, but more importantly, extra-pair parentage occurs when parents are more related to each other.
Study to determine if infidelity among birds an attempt to avoid inbreeding, diversify genes
A recent study by Kansas State University researchers found that birds cheat on their mates to avoid inbreeding and increase genetic diversity. In a collaborative study of three shore bird species, the team discovered that infidelity rates are significantly lower than those observed in songbirds.
Neighborhood socioeconomic status affects diversity of birds in parks, study finds
Researchers found that neighborhoods with higher socioeconomic status have more diverse bird populations, while lower-income areas tend to have fewer birds. The study analyzed data from 15 Phoenix-area community parks and suggests that socioeconomic factors play a significant role in shaping the local bird population.
Ecological significance of tool-use in the woodpecker finch Cactospiza pallida
Woodpecker finches rely on tool use to extract food from bark and tree-holes in scarce environments, outperforming conventional foraging techniques. This unique adaptation allows them to acquire larger, high-energy prey.
LSU part of national Tree of Life effort
The LSU Museum of Natural Science is part of a $4 million grant to compare DNA sequences of 500 bird species. The goal is to understand the history of avian diversity and reconstruct the evolution of bird behavior, morphology, and ecology.
Songbird population declines linked to acid rain
Acid rain is harming wood thrush populations, with declines of up to 5% annually in regions with high acidity. The decline may be related to leaching of calcium from the soil, affecting food availability and breeding success.
City birds prefer rich neighbors
A study of 15 community parks found that bird diversity and abundance are linked to neighborhood income, not park size or vegetation. However, the correlation between trees and bird populations is weak, suggesting other factors, such as cat populations or urban planning, may be at play.
'Fowl-howl' ties discovered between birds, monkeys
A study by Duke University scientists found that excess plant-eating monkeys on small islands spur extra tree growth, boosting insect populations that attract birds. The density of birds is strongly correlated with the density of howler monkeys.
A look at development, rural trends, birds
Researchers at the University of Michigan found that low-density exurban development increased by 2000 to occupy nearly 10 times the area of urbanized land, while agricultural land use decreased in some areas. Special planning can help minimize environmental impact through designs that deliver public benefits like clean water and nativ...
Sprawl may threaten wildlife in reserves
A study by Andrew Hansen and Jay Rotella found that development near nature reserves can harm bird populations, as many species rely on productive habitats outside the reserve. The researchers suggest that conserving population source areas outside reserves is necessary to protect biodiversity in nature reserves.
Illicit crops threaten birds in Colombia
Illicit crops, particularly opium poppies, are expanding into critical bird habitats in the Andes region of Colombia. This could lead to devastating effects on forest-dependent bird species if the expansion continues.
Clover strip-cropping in cotton provides critical habitat for threatened songbirds
Research by University of Georgia wildlife scientists found that clover strip-cropping and conservation tillage systems in cotton provide critical habitat for threatened songbirds. Clover offers cover from predators, insects for food, and time to nest and fledge young between field operations.
Lakeshore development affects birds
A study by researchers at the University of Michigan found that lakeshore housing development affects breeding bird communities in ways that conventional methods may miss. The study suggests that property owners can take steps to lessen the effects, such as keeping lawns small and encouraging native vegetation.
Expeditions find no evidence of ivory-billed woodpecker
Researchers from Cornell University deployed acoustic recording units to capture sounds from the Pearl River drainage, but found no indication of the ivory-billed woodpecker's presence. The technology may provide conclusive evidence on future sound recordings.
Male starlings sing a song of reproductive fitness
Research reveals that female starlings choose mates with the strongest immune systems, as these males tend to have better singing abilities. The finding supports a decade-old theory that suggests evolution has found a way to prevent male birds from cheating on their reproductive quality.
Farming inside forests hurts bird communities more than timber harvesting, study suggests
A study by Ohio State University researchers found that farming inside forests reduces bird diversity and nesting success compared to timber harvesting. The study's results suggest that small agricultural openings can have a significant impact on bird populations.
Traditional floodplain forest restoration may decrease bird diversity
A study found that traditional floodplain forest restoration may decrease bird diversity, with some species preferring uncommon tree species. The researchers recommend replanting floodplain forests with rare and heavy-seeded trees to support a diverse avian community.
'Bird brains' take heart-our feathered friends are no slouch at cognition
Researchers have found that birds excel in tasks such as combining objects in specific orders, using vocal labels, and learning complex songs. This suggests that the neural machinery involved in these abilities may not be unique to primates, but rather has evolved separately in birds.
New species clarifies bird-dinosaur link
A new species of carnivorous dinosaur, Sinovenator changii, has been discovered in China, revealing that major structural modifications towards birds occurred earlier than previously thought. The fossil is closely related to the oldest known bird, Archaeopteryx, and provides evidence that birds did not evolve from dinosaurs.
Chemical evidence proves the old adage, ‘Birds of a feather flock together’
Researchers analyzed carbon and hydrogen isotopes in black-throated blue warbler feathers to link northern breeding populations with southern wintering grounds. The study found a significant correlation between isotopic composition and geographical location.
Science study explains the sexy glow of parrot plumage
A new study reveals that parrot plumage contains fluorescent pigments that signal sex appeal, attracting mates. Researchers found that applying sunscreen reduced the birds' fluorescence, resulting in a decreased sexual preference.
Prescribed burning may threaten ground nesting birds
A recent study found that prescribed burns in eastern U.S. deciduous forests can decline ground-nesting bird species by over 80% due to reduced leaf litter and shrubs. However, two bird species increased in response to the burns, suggesting that fire may improve their foraging habitat.
Study of flamingo genes reveals surprising family tree
A comprehensive study of flamingo genes reveals a shocking family tree, with the elegant flamingo's closest relative being the squat grebe. The study's findings suggest that physical features like long legs and webbed feet evolved repeatedly in aquatic bird species, contradicting traditional classification systems.
Study of aquatic bird genes reveals surprising relationships and evolutionary history
A comprehensive analysis of aquatic bird genes reveals that flamingos are closely related to grebes, contrary to their physical appearance. The study suggests that evolutionary change occurred at a faster pace than previously recognized, with physical features evolving repeatedly in different species.
Galapagos finches sing different mating songs due to evolutionary diversification of beaks, says UMass biologist
A new study suggests that the shape of a bird's beak affects its courtship song, with smaller beaks producing quicker, more varied melodies. This finding has implications for our understanding of speciation, as different songs may help distinguish between species.
New fossil found in Mongolia provides insight into the origin of living birds and the evolution of flight
A nearly complete bird fossil found in Mongolia provides insight into the origin of living birds and the evolution of flight. The Apsaravis ukhaana specimen is from a part of the evolutionary tree close to the origin of all living birds, shedding new light on their evolution.
When it comes to song, birds spot the similarity and difference
Researchers found that young birds can recognize and prefer learning the songs of their own subspecies over other types. The study also revealed that birds have a more finely detailed sense of song than previously thought. After tutoring, two-thirds of the birds chose to sing their own subspecies' song.
Rainforest birds keep dying out long after logging stops
New research in Conservation Biology found that fragmented rainforests can lose biodiversity for a century. The study, led by Thomas Brooks, suggests that conserving the most-recently isolated fragments will save the greatest number of species from extinction.
Presence of a fertile female in the next nest can lead a bird astray, UBresearch finds
Biologists at the University at Buffalo discovered that the presence of a fertile female in the next nest can cause a male to stray, leaving his mate unguarded. The phenomenon is linked to local breeding synchrony, where multiple females lay eggs in the same area.
Antbird capable of increasing testosterone level when threatened
Researchers found that spotted antbirds in a Panama rainforest increase testosterone levels to boost aggression against invaders, even during the off-season. This finding has implications for understanding aggression regulation in humans and may reveal insights into physiological parameters.
Duke Sponsored Meet Will Bring World's Chaos And Complex Systems Experts To N.C.
The second Dynamics Days international conference will bring together experts in chaos, nonlinear dynamics, and complex systems to share their research. Speakers will discuss topics such as internet storms, animal coordination, extinction causes, and pattern formations.
Christmas Bird Count: Another Holiday Tradition
The USGS has released 30 years of Christmas Bird Count data, showing significant increases in eastern bluebirds, American crows, and American goldfinches, while declines are noted for bobwhites, loggerhead shrikes, field sparrows, and mockingbirds. The data provides valuable insights into bird population trends and patterns over time.
Researchers Develop Model Using Birds As Indicator Of Wetlands Health
A new index developed by Jamie Coleman and David Styer uses bird counts to evaluate the condition of wetland habitats. The model identifies thriving wetlands with high water-loving bird populations and declining wetlands with fewer birds adapted to drier environments.
Scarcity Of Illinois Prairie Chickens Tied To Lack Of Genetic Diversity
A genetic analysis by University of Illinois researchers reveals that Illinois Prairie Chickens have lost significant genetic diversity due to population decline, affecting their fitness. The study suggests introducing birds from neighboring states may help restore the species' numbers and health.