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 1.0 August 20, 2013

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

Song or call? A song is a longer and more complex vocalization, often with specific repeated patterns – Usually used to attract mates or defend territory A call is a shorter, simpler vocalization – Used to sound alarms, tell others about food, keep track of each other ♪ Hey sweetie, come check out my territory! ♪ LS1D, LS2D I’m here! Where are you?

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.

Bird Talk Birds use unique songs and calls to communicate different messages. Different species have different songs and calls in their repertoire. LS1D

How do birds vocalize? Humans have a larynx that allows us to vocalize Birds have a similar structure, called a syrinx LS1A