Bird species compete for songs

There is a large body of research on how the environment can greatly influence an animal's physical appearance and where it lives. However, new research shows that simply resembling other coexisting animal species can have an influence on behaviour such as bird song.

The EU-funded CD AND CE project was set up to further research this phenomenon in the field, something no previous study has done. The project focused on how genetics and physical similarities can affect interactions between related African birds, specifically regarding song, plumage and body size.

Scientists observed these traits in two similar-looking tinkerbird species by comparing populations in closely overlapping habitats to those in habitats further apart. Their findings showed intriguing relationships between tinkerbird species, which are indeed influenced by their genetic similarity and the degree of habitat overlap.

Part of the project was also dedicated to human capacity development. It established a graduate programme in biodiversity and ecology, the first of its kind offered in Cyprus.

CD AND CE's phylogenetic research into bird behaviour is expected to transform our scientific understanding of key concepts in population ecology. It also highlights the importance of the previously unexamined role of genetic and physical relatedness in determining behaviour amongst coexisting species.