Spatial and Individual Variation in the Songs of the Yellow-throated Honeyeater Lichenostomus flavicollis

Abstract

Two types of territorial song used by the Yellow-throated Honeyeater were examined. The breeding song, only present in the breeding season, varied little between individuals within study areas. However, between study areas there was a marked variation in the number of syllables in the song phrase and in the frequency and temporal structure of the syllables. No sharp boundaries were found between song variants. The non-breeding song, present throughout the year, exhibited no individual or spatial distinctiveness. This song type varied greatly within each individual's repertoire.