Song learning in zebra finches: some effects of song model availability on what is learnt and when

This study indicates that captive male zebra finches (Taeniopygia guttata) normally learn their song during the juvenile period between independence from their parents and sexual maturity, from whatever suitable song model is available. Virtually nothing is learnt from the father before this time. Hybrid songs may develop if birds are removed from the father and given a new song model before song learning is complete. The absence of a song model during the juvenile stage appears to postpone the sensitive phase and abnormal song is produced until a suitable model becomes available. Normal song will then develop, even in a sexually mature adult. This indicates that experience and not age is the important factor determining the timing of the sensitive phase for song learning in zebra finches.