Development of song in the wood thrush (Hylocichla mustelina), with notes on a technique for hand-rearing passerines from the egg. American Museum novitates ; no. 2666

Abstract

"Two wood thrushes (Hylocichla mustelina), reared from the egg in isolation from experienced conspecifics, developed song that is remarkably species-specific, but lacking in certain characteristics of the central phrases. Wild wood thrushes failed to respond to the playback of the isolates' songs, which suggests that features of the central phrase, normally learned from experienced conspecifics during the first 10 months of age, may transmit information required for species-recognition in this species. Am unusually detailed account updates the author's technique for hand-rearing passerines from the egg, including simplification of equipment and diet"--p. [1].