SEXUAL IMPRINTING AND SONG LEARNING - 2 OF ONE KIND

Imprinting and song learning in birds are usually categorized under th e same heading as 'exposure', 'template' or 'programmed' learning. The se terms point to several similarities between the processes, but exac tly how similar they are and whether the similarity implies a direct c ausal linkage is not clear. We examine these issues in the present pap er, concentrating in particular on studies on the zebra finch, the spe cies of which there is best knowledge of both processes. An update of earlier overviews on the taxonomic distribution of sexual imprinting s hows that it is much wider spread than assumed previously and probably present in all species showing song learning. In contrast to earlier statements, there is no indication that imprinting in the zebra finch precedes (and in this way guides) song learning. Both processes show a similar flexibility in their timing, depending on the experimental pr ocedures. Several experiments suggest that young males use their mothe r as a model for their sexual preference, while developing an aversion for their father's appearance. This aversion does not hamper them in copying their father's song. Even more, there is some evidence to sugg est that a stronger preference for the mother's appearance is linked w ith better song learning from the father. We suggest some causal expla nations for this 'antagonistic' relationship.