BirdSleuth K-12 Educators… These teaching slides were created by the BirdSleuth K-12 team. We welcome you to share these slides with your students! You may edit this file, but please do not distribute this file (neither original or edited versions). Other resources pertaining to this content can be found at: Need help or have questions? Please contact BirdSleuth at or consult the BirdSleuth website at Join BirdSleuth on our social networks at: – Facebook: – Twitter: – Pinterest: Version 2.0 July 17, 2014

BirdSleuth K-12 Red-winged Blackbird Tufted Titmouse Northern Cardinal Ovenbird American Robin European Starling Black- capped Chickadee Play Mystery Sound! >

BirdSleuth K-12 Song or call? A song is typically longer and more complex, often with specific repeated patterns Usually used to attract mates or defend territory A call is usually shorter and simpler Used to sound alarms, tell others about food, keep track of each other ♪ Hey sweetie, come check out my awesome territory and my nice colors’ ♪ I’m here! Where are you?

BirdSleuth K-12 Why do birds vocalize? For many birds, vocalizations are the main mode of communication. Some bird use non-vocal communication (for example, a woodpecker drumming.

BirdSleuth K-12 Bird Talk Birds use unique songs and calls to communicate different messages. Different species have different songs and calls in their repertoire.

BirdSleuth K-12 How do birds vocalize? Humans have a larynx that allows us to vocalize Birds have a similar structure, called a syrinx

BirdSleuth K-12 Non-Vocal Sounds Some birds use non-vocal sounds to convey messages Woodpeckers tap on tree trunks to attract a mate or defend territory