Biology
The Ontogeny of Vocal Learning in Parrots and Its Neural Substrates
Quick fact
Parrots are one of only a few animal groups—along with songbirds, hummingbirds, and humans—that learn their vocalizations. Their brains contain a specialized system of 'song nuclei' that expands during the sensitive period of vocal learning and remains plastic throughout life, allowing them to learn new sounds at any age.
Why this is interesting
You've probably heard a parrot 'talk,' but behind that trick is a remarkable developmental journey that begins in the nest. How does a chick go from peeping to mimicking human speech, and what is happening in its brain?