Cultural Evolution in Song Dialects of Yellow‐rumped Caciques in Panama

摘要: The histories of five colony-specific song dialects yellow-rumped caciques (Cacicus cela vitellinus) were recorded for three breeding seasons in Panama. Dialects consisted 5 to 8 types shared among all male members a colony. number that occurred at more than one colony decreased with distance between colonies. Color-banded subadult and adult males frequently dispersed years other dialect areas where they adopted the local songs. About 78% distinct from songs present previous year same During season some changed gradually, adopting parallel changes. Gradual change colonies appeared account new did introduction by dispersing males. Because gradually constant directions, cause these changes may be cultural adaptation which individuals benefit certain songs, rather copy-error or drift.