Singing in the face of danger: The anomalous type II vocalization of the splendid fairy-wren

Citation
B. Zelano et al., Singing in the face of danger: The anomalous type II vocalization of the splendid fairy-wren, ETHOLOGY, 107(3), 2001, pp. 201-216
Citations number
43
Language
INGLESE
art.tipo
Article
Categorie Soggetti
Animal Sciences","Neurosciences & Behavoir
Journal title
ETHOLOGY
ISSN journal
0179-1613 → ACNP
Volume
107
Issue
3
Year of publication
2001
Pages
201 - 216
Database
ISI
SICI code
0179-1613(200103)107:3<201:SITFOD>2.0.ZU;2-N
Abstract
Males of certain species of fairy-wrens (Aves: Maluridae) emit a unique voc alization, the Type II vocalization, in response to the calls of potential predators. We conducted field observations and playback experiments to iden tify the contexts in which the Type II vocalization is emitted by splendid fairy-wren (Malurus splendens) males, and to examine social and genetic fac tors that influence its occurrence. In field observations and controlled pl ayback experiments, Type II vocalizations were elicited most consistently b y calls of the predatory gray butcherbird (Cracticus torquatus). Some vocal izations from other avian species also elicited Type II vocalizations, and the majority of these were vocalizations from avian predators. Splendid fai ry-wrens are cooperative breeders, and males that responded with Type II vo calizations to playbacks of butcherbird calls tended to be primary rather t han secondary males, had larger cloacal protuberances, and were older than those that did not respond. In addition, secondary males that were sons of resident females were more likely than non-sons to respond with a Type II v ocalization. In another playback experiment, females responded similarly to the Type I song and Type II vocalizations of their mates. Although the Typ e II vocalization is emitted primarily in response to predator calls, it is inconsistent with an alarm call explanation. Patterns of reproductive succ ess among Type II calling males suggest that it does not function as an hon est signal of male quality. At present, the function of the vocalization re mains anomalous, but indirect fitness benefits may play a role in its expla nation.