Vocal learning
Vocal learning is the ability of animals to modify vocal signals in form as a result of experience with those of other individuals. This can lead to signals that are either similar or dissimilar to the model.[1] A more restrictive definition limits vocal learning to cases where animals learn to produce sounds not included in their genetic repertoire, by mimicking what they hear in their acoustic environment.[2][3]
[edit] Occurrence
A classical example of vocal learning is birdsong in the bird species whose repertoire is not entirely innate – songbirds, parrots and hummingbirds. In mammals, seals and cetaceans have been found to have this capacity as well.[4] Further reports exist on bats and elephants.
In evolutionary psychology, human speech and vocal music are regarded as complex forms of vocal learning.
[edit] See also
- Animal cognition
- Bioacoustics
- Biolinguistics
- Biomusic
- Birdsong
- Evolution of language
- Evolution of music
- Evolutionary linguistics
- Evolutionary psychology
- Human Voice
- Phonation
- Social learning
- Speech repetition
- Talking animal
- Whale song
[edit] References
- ^ V.M. Janik & P.J.B. Slater. The different roles of social learning in vocal communication. Animal Behaviour 2000; 60:1-11. [1].
- ^ Fitch W.T. The biology and evolution of music: A comparative perspective. Cognition 2006; 100(1):173-215. DOI
- ^ Jarvis E.D. Selection for and against vocal learning in birds and mammals. Ornithol. Sci. 2006; 5:5-14. DOI
- ^ V.M. Janik & P.J.B. Slater. Vocal learning in mammals. Advances in the Study of Behavior 1997; 26:59-99
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