Vocal Learning and Communication in Songbirds

As exemplified by sparrows, which can be seen almost everywhere in urban areas, birds are one of the most easily observable wild animals in various environments around the world. We focus particularly on the vocalization behavior of songbirds (small birds that sing) and study the neural and behavioral mechanisms by which they acquire and maintain complex songs through learning, primarily at the behavioral and neural circuit levels. This “birdsong learning” is analogous to human language learning in that it involves the acquisition of vocal patterns, making it an excellent model system for understanding the underlying mechanisms.

We employ various methods, including electrophysiological techniques, pharmacological approaches, gene expression analysis, behavioral manipulation, and calcium imaging, to investigate the mechanisms by which songbirds develop and maintain song vocal patterns through vocal practice via a reinforcement learning process. Recently, we have focused on the previously understudied topic of “intrinsic motivation" that drives spontaneous singing for vocal practice,” opening up a new research direction. Additionally, we are conducting interdisciplinary research spanning neurophysiological mechanisms and behavioral ecology on the phenomenon known as “dawn chorus,” where songbirds sing vigorously in the early morning.