Comparative approaches to estimating repertoires and American Robin individuality
Abstract
Song repertoire size is the range of distinct syllables, phrases, and song types created by an individual or population. Variations within songs create complex repertoires, making them difficult to estimate. There are several methods to estimate repertoire size, however prior studies discovered that all but a full numerical count of song types might have substantial inaccuracies associated with them. We evaluated a new method to estimate repertoire size—rarefaction. Ecologists use rarefaction to measure species diversity on individual and population levels. Using the repertoires of American Robins (Turdus migratorius), we compared the common techniques of estimating repertoires to the results of a rarefaction analysis. We found that the rarefaction technique was the best alternative to a full numerical count of song types, which is the most accurate method. American robins have elaborate and unique songs with few syllables shared between individuals. This is important because it can further the understanding of robin communication. Especially in their formation of songs, such as a large repertoire suggests that robins invent their songs. Individuality of robin songs can help with the understanding evolution of complex songs because females choose males with complex songs. Key words: repertoire, individuality, rarefaction, behavioral accumulation curve, capture-recapture, numerical count, and syllables
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