Vocal imitation in orange fronted conures (Eupsittula canicularis)

Exchanges of contact calls always precede flock fusions in orange fronted conures (Eupsitulla canicularis). During these exchanges, individuals alter their contact calls, which sometimes lead to increased vocal similarity but also can lead to vocal divergence. Through playback experiments, the signal value of call modifications and the importance vocal roles are tested. In addition, while exchanging contact calls with the other flocks, members of the flock also communicate about the flock decision using other call types. In about 1/4 of the trials where flocks attempted fusion, the flocks failed to reach a communal decision and only part of the flock attempted fusion. The vocal communication provide insight to what degree all individuals in the flock contribute to the decision.