"FOXP2" is found in many vertebrates, where it plays an important role in mimicry in birds (such as birdsong) and echolocation in bats. "FOXP2" is also required for the proper development of speech and language in humans. In humans, mutations in "FOXP2" cause the severe speech and language disorder developmental verbal dyspraxia. Studies of the gene in mice and songbirds indicate that it is necessary for vocal imitation and the related motor learning. Outside the brain, "FOXP2" has also been implicated in development of other tissues such as the lung and digestive system.