Why do some birds sing together? In many tropical species, pairs coordinate their voices in remarkably precise duets—but how do these songs work, and what are they for?

This talk introduces the fascinating world of bird duets, using tropical species and sound examples to explore when duets occur, who participates, and the different forms they can take. The presentation will also offer a gentle introduction to bioacoustics, showing how recordings and spectrograms help researchers study bird communication.

Whether you’re curious about why two birds can sound like one, or how researchers study songs, this talk offers an accessible look into one of the most intriguing aspects of avian life.

Join us for this free event via Zoom. Please register using the button below and mark it on your calendar. There is a brief meeting at 7:15 followed by the program at 7:30. The public is welcome.

About the presenter: Montserrat Alvarado-Deckwart is a biologist from Costa Rica, specializing in ornithology and vocal communication in birds. She is currently completing a master’s degree with a focus on bioacoustics and animal behavior, studying how birds use song and duets to communicate with mates and neighbors, using the White-eared Ground-Sparrow (Melozone leucotis) as a model species in tropical environments. Her research combines fieldwork and bioacoustics to explore how listening closely to birds can reveal information about behavior, relationships and territory. Montserrat works extensively with field recordings and acoustic analyses and enjoys sharing her research with birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts, connecting scientific research and everyday observation of birds.