Bird Talk begins by defining the wide variety of ways birds communicate, using songs, calls, plumes and dances. The variety of communication uses are outlined, and the way that birds detect and receive signals. Birds have keen eyesight, and see a broader colour spectrum than the human eye to include UV light, so that plumage pattern and use on its own or in combination with dancing and strutting can convey a wealth of information.
Birds communicate to defend their territory and to attract mates. Chicks and parents rely on communication for recognition, begging and signs of quality. Birds have sophisticated warning calls, with some able to tell their flock what kind of predator is threatening them. A good number of birds - the corvids, hummingbirds and the songbirds - actually learn songs and calls so that different flocks have different dialects. This has concerning implications for bird survival if environment loss demands forced migration. Today's world is noisy for birds, and Bird Talk explores how avian life is adapting to these new challenges.
- ISBN13 9781782409823
- Publish Date 9 March 2021
- Publish Status Cancelled
- Publish Country GB
- Imprint The Ivy Press
- Format Hardcover
- Pages 192
- Language English