Birds are iconic for their acoustic communication, such as songs and calls. Vocalizing near their nest can have benefits, such as synchronizing parental care. Despite such benefits, research has shown these vocalizations may also reveal the nest to predators. Therefore, birds are expected to be sensitive to risk and reduce vocalization rates when predators are near. Interestingly, the Grey Fantail (Rhipidura albiscapa), frequently vocalizes on and near their nests during nest building. Using a model presentation experiment, we tested if fantails would reduce vocalization rates at the nest during building in relation to predator presence. We recorded vocalization rates on and within 2.5 meters of the nest during each build trip, next we presented models (predator/control) nearby, and the following day observed the pair to determine if they altered vocalization rates based on recent experience.
Results/Conclusions
There was no effect of model type on vocalization rates (p=0.16). However, there was a decrease in vocalization rates across trial days (p<0.01) and birds vocalized more frequently on the nest than when they were near the nest (p<0.01). The reduction in vocalization rates across days, but no model effect, suggests a generalized anti-predator response serving to reduce the detection of the nest.