The Sound Signals of the Adult Avocet Recurvirostra A Vosetta During the Perinatal Phase
Abstract
Recordings of Avocet vocalizations were collected from three pairs, using a microphone placed close to nests at the end of incubation in a colony on the French Atlantic coast, in Vendée.
From sonagraphic analyses, ten vocal structures were identified and described. Particular attention is given to the internal components of each call in an attempt to demonstrate structural relationships. In terms of general melodic features, three vocal groups are identified: chuckle calls, ascending chirping calls and sustained calls with whistled components. The existence of numerous gradation forms is emphasized.
Verification of gestural behaviour at the time of the recordings additionally allows the context of emission to be clarified. It is distinguished thus: parental calls, calls concerned in the maintenance of individual distance and calls produced in the presence of predators.
Finally, the Avocet sound signals are compared with those of other species, mainly waders.