The Hidden World of Female Birdsong: A New Perspective

The perception that only male birds sing to establish territory or attract mates is being challenged by a new guidebook, *The Sound Approach to Birding 2*. This publication highlights the often-overlooked contributions of female birdsong, revealing that up to 70% of female bird species engage in vocalizations for various purposes, including territorial displays and mate attraction. Lucy McRobert, a researcher involved in the guidebook, emphasizes that the narrative surrounding female birdsong is overly simplistic and inaccurate.

The Guardian

Historically, female birds have been underrepresented in sound archives and field guides. For instance, a 2016 analysis found that only 0.01% of bird sounds in the global Xeno-Canto sound library were labeled as female. Mark Constantine, the author of the new guidebook, was inspired by Jasmine Donahaye's work, *Birdsplaining*, which critiques the gender biases present in field guides from the mid-20th century. Donahaye pointed out that female birds were often depicted in submissive poses, reinforcing the notion that they are secondary to males.

The Guardian

The guidebook includes a library of 300 sounds from 200 species, aiming to correct the historical oversight of female birdsong. For example, female barn swallows sing alongside males during courtship, and female mallards quack, while males produce a quieter rasping call. The research also indicates that female birds influence the evolution of song trends among males, as those who adapt to the latest styles are more successful in securing mates and territories.

The Guardian

Critics of traditional views argue that the long-held belief that only males sing is limiting and overlooks the complexities of avian behavior. Donahaye expressed hope that the recognition of female birdsong will lead to new insights into bird behavior, questioning how much has been missed due to previous assumptions.

The Guardian

• “We’ve got a completely false narrative around female bird sounds and female birdsong,” — Lucy McRobert, Researcher

The Guardian

• “Everything we believe about our birdsong isn’t true. I love the fact that Donald Duck is actually a female – he quacks like a female. Most people don’t realise that the female mallards quack and the males don’t.” — Mark Constantine, Author

The Guardian

• “She said: “How much have we missed because we weren’t asking a question because the assumption was that males sing for all these reasons and females don’t sing?” — Jasmine Donahaye, Author

The Guardian

The revelations presented in *The Sound Approach to Birding 2* not only challenge existing narratives but also call for further research into female birdsong. As the understanding of avian communication evolves, it is crucial to recognize the roles that both male and female birds play in their ecosystems. The guidebook serves as a vital resource for bird enthusiasts and researchers alike, encouraging a more nuanced appreciation of the complexities of bird behavior.

The Guardian