INDIVIDUAL AND SONG TYPE-SPECIFIC USE OF THE KIT ELEMENT IN THE SONG OF CHAFFINCHES (FRINGILLA-COELEBS)

The distribution and use of the element ''kit'' as terminal part of th e song of Chaffinches was studied in 16 male. The frequency of occurre nce of the ''kit' was dependent on individual male and on song types, and the ''kit'' was omitted significantly more often then any other pa rt of the song pattern. The specific character of the ''kit' as a term inal element, possible proximate factors for its occurrence, and the q uestion whether it is a hetero-specific imitation are discussed.