Recognition of contact calls by the budgerigar (Melopsittacus undulatus)

Abstract

Playback studies have been used to assess whether birds recognize the calls and songs of other birds. In this experiment, contact calls were recorded from three pairs of budgerigars. These calls were then used as stimuli in playback experiments. Calls were stored on a computer and played to the birds either randomly or in response to calling. The bird’s vocal responses to these stimuli were recorded and counted. Results indicate that the birds showed a preference for particular calls. Overall, the birds responded more frequently to their mate’s call than to the calls of other birds. © 1993, Psychonomic Society, Inc.. All rights reserved.