Summary
The brains of humans and vocal learning birds, such as songbirds and parrots, have remarkable similarities in the areas controlling speech and language. Behavioral parallels include the ability to imitate sounds, critical periods for language learning, and speech deterioration when deaf. Research has also found similarities in brain circuits and gene expression patterns between humans and vocal learning birds. Mutations in genes associated with speech deficits in humans can cause similar deficits in vocal learning birds. Hummingbirds are capable of singing using their syrinx and can also create a slapping sound with their wings that coordinates with their song. Vocal communication in birds is influenced by both genetics and cultural learning.