Book 31, Question 77
How can you tell a bird’s song from its call?
Songs are usually longer and more musical, with several notes arranged in a pattern.
Calls are short and simple, like a squawk, chirp, or peep. Birds use calls all year to say things like “danger,” “come here,” or “I found food.” Songs are often used to mark out a territory or to attract attention during the spring. Many birds use both, and learning the difference helps you recognize who’s who.
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Quick answers
How can you tell a bird’s song from its call?
Bird calls, on the other hand, are shorter, more functional sounds used for specific types of communication.
Source: Natural History Museum, London
More fun facts
- Songs are the complex and tuneful vocalisations made by many garden bird species throughout the day, especially in the morning.
- Early morning and the hour before sunset are the times of day when bird song is at its most intense.
- Birds as diverse as rails, nightjars, and trogons have songs that function in the classic way, to defend territories and attract mates.
- Detailed studies of Northern Cardinals found that, in addition to their whistled songs, they have at least 16 different types of calls.
Sources: Natural History Museum, London, Audubon