Vocal learning in a vocal non-learner? Vocal convergence and social proximity shape the calls of the most basal Passeriformes, New Zealand Wrens [Dataset and code]
This repository contains the datasets and scripts for the analysis of Moran et al. Social proximity and vocal convergence shape the call feature of one of the most basal Passeriformes, New Zealand Wrens. Communications Biology (2024) 7:575. https://doi.org/10.1038/s42003-024-06253-y.
Abstract
Despite extensive research on avian vocal learning, we still lack a general understanding of how and when this ability evolved in birds. As the closest living relatives of the earliest Passeriformes, the New Zealand wrens (Acanthisitti) hold a key phylogenetic position for furthering our understanding of the evolution of vocal learning because they share a common ancestor with two vocal learners: oscines and parrots. However, the vocal learning abilities of New Zealand wrens remain unexplored. Here, we test for the presence of prerequisite behaviors for vocal learning in one of the two extant species of New Zealand wrens, the rifleman (Acanthisitta chloris). We detect the presence of unique individual vocal signatures and show how these signatures are shaped by social proximity, as demonstrated by group vocal signatures and strong acoustic similarities among distantly related individuals in close social proximity. Further, we reveal that rifleman calls share similar phenotypic variance ratios to those previously reported in the learned vocalizations of the zebra finch, Taeniopygia guttata. Together these findings provide strong evidence that riflemen vocally converge, and though the mechanism still remains to be determined, they may also suggest that this vocal convergence is the result of rudimentary vocal learning abilities.
Aim
We use an integrative approach that combines machine learning and MCMC GLMM models to test for the presence of vocal production learning in one of the two extant species of New Zealand wrens, the rifleman, Acanthisitta chloris.
Results
Our results highlight the presence of predispositions for vocal production learning in the rifleman, including group vocal signatures, vocal convergence, and phenotypic variance call ratios similar to vocal learners.
Description of the data and file structure
Please note: there are two parallel analyses:
- The first analysis investigates the presence of individual and group vocal signatures using MDS and a random forest and is entitled: vocal_signatures_Communications_Biology
- The second analysis investigates relationships between acoustic, social and genetic similarity/relatedness and computes the phenotypic variances of rifleman calls. The files related to this analysis are entitled: Input, input_clips_flat, vocal_pedigree.R, and Output.
Methods
For complete methodology, please refer to the Methodology section in Moran et al. Social proximity and vocal convergence shape the call feature of one of the most basal Passeriformes, New Zealand Wrens. Communications Biology (2024) 7:575. https://doi.org/10.1038/s42003-024-06253-y.
## Audio Input
Please note that due to the large size of the raw input audio files, we only provide the clipped annotated audio files instead. For the raw input audio files, please contact the corresponding author.
For audio recording use, please receive prior approval from Mana Whenua from the Maungaharuru region, New Zealand - Aotearoa and the Department of Conservation, Aotearoa - New Zealand (Boundary Stream Mainland Island)
## Code/Software
For code sharing and access, see use conditions below under Code/Software
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