Bird Talk: An Exploration of Avian Communication

Bird Talk highlights the complexities of a multitude of bird songs and calls, as well as a plethora of non-vocal communication methods, movement displays, and colorful plumages. I highly recommend this book for anyone who is passionate about ornithology and birding, and interested in expanding their knowledge about the different ways that birds communicate, as well as the impacts of human activity on birdsong and other behavior.

The latest scientific research on avian communication is complemented with awe-inspiring full-color photographs of warbling songbirds, ducks in full plumage, shorebirds in active territorial defense and more. Communication between males and females underscore acoustic and plumage displays that emphasize reproductive success and sexual selection. The book shares fascinating facts on well-documented competition, territory defense, and other social functions of birdsong.

The authors offer a conservationist argument to mind the fate of birds in increasingly urbanized habitats. Noise and pollution impact avian communication. To adapt to heightened acoustic noise, birds adjust their signals to be heard. Changes in frequencies make it difficult for other birds to hear the signals. Dirt and polluted air also have an impact on plumage color. The detrimental impacts of human activity serve as a call-to-action to tune in to the issue, to be more involved, and to do something tangible to protect our beloved wild birds.