Song preferences predict the quality of vocal learning in zebra finches.

ABSTRACT: In songbirds, learning to sing is a highly social process that likely involves social reward. Here, we tested the hypothesis that during song learning, the reward value of hearing a particular song predicts the degree to which that song will ultimately be learned. We measured the early song preferences of young male zebra finches (Taeniopygia guttata) in an operant key-pressing assay; each of two keys was associated with a higher likelihood of playing the song of the father or that of another familiar adult ("neighbor"). To minimize the effects of exposure on learning, we implemented a novel reinforcement schedule that allowed us to detect preferences while balancing exposure to each song. On average, the juveniles significantly preferred the father's song early during song learning, befor

SUBMITTER: Rodriguez-Saltos CA 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC9837092 | biostudies-literature | 2023 Jan

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature