Birds that sing complex songs give clue to origins of human syntax

Brain and language studied in song birds

source: Independent February 17 2003 p9

Researchers from Duke University, North Carolina, have discovered key locations in the brains of songbirds, humming birds and parrots, which allow them to develop and remember songs and other complex sound sequences. Only a few types of birds and mammals are able to learn sounds in this way. Cetaceans, bats and humans are the mammals with these skills, and understanding the link between brain and behaviour in birds may help in understanding how syntax, or rules of human language, came about. Glutamate receptors in the cerebrum of birds help transmit nerve impulses, and help to develop new neural connections in birds learning new songs. Hummingbirds can remember very complex songs, though their brains are very small. They defend territory and use songs in courtship, with more complex songs proving more attractive. Surgeons operating on humans could usefully improve their knowledge if similar areas can be located in humans.