Zebra Finch Song Learning

Zebra finch songbirds are a classic model for studying vocal learning from prenatal development to adulthood. Scientists conduct studies comparing how zebra finches learn song calls differently during incubation and after hatching. In these studies, prenatal zebra finches that heard non-paternal syllables (sounds from birds other than their parents) preferred these syllables in song learning after hatching. This differed from the control groups, which had no preference between paternal and non-paternal song tutors.

This research shows that exposure to songs and calls while inside the egg does not impact how quickly zebra finches are able to learn songs once hatched. However, it does influence from whom the songbirds are most receptive to learning. These zebra finches provide evidence that very early sonic experience does play a part in the birds’ song learning and refinement, though not in the way the researchers hypothesized.

Collaborations between researchers at the University of Illinois and other universities have led to other valuable discoveries. David Clayton, professor of Developmental Biology, led a group that analyzed genome sequences to better understand the relationship between zebra finch genes and their capacities and preferences for various songs as they are exposed during development. 

This group identified hundreds of song-responsive genes connected to neural development in zebra finches. Beginning during embryonic development, these sequences can be turned on or off to either present or suppress genes. This information lays the foundation for the song template that the zebra finches will use to attract a mate later in life.

This research reveals that the way that songbirds such as zebra finches develop, learn songs, and communicate is very similar to humans and their cognitive vocal development. Accordingly, the findings are significant for scientists studying the parallels between human and animal brain development.