Nest predation and the evolution of nestling begging calls

• Published in: Proceedings of the Royal Society. B, Biological sciences Vol. 266; no. 1434; pp. 2153 - 2159
• Main Authors: Briskie, James V., Martin, Paul R., Martin, Thomas E.
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: The Royal Society 07.11.1999
• Subjects: Average linear density; Aves; Begging; Behaviour; Biological taxonomies; Bird nesting; Evolution; Frequency ranges; Nest Predation; Nestling Birds; Nestling Vocalizations; Phylogeny; Predation; Predators; Species; Warblers

Begging by nestling birds can be conspicuous and loud. Such displays are thought to function in signalling nestling condition and securing parental care, but they also may inadvertently attract the attention of predators. We compared the structure of nestling begging calls to the risk of predation a...