The scientists placed a 3D model of a chirping robin in a room with male robins. They added traffic sounds. The researchers then looked at the different reactions of the robins.
Urban robots reacted more physically to 3D birds than rural robins. Researchers believe that birds from the city are more aggressive because their daily communication is disrupted by construction noise and traffic noise, for example.
When the researchers played the sounds of traffic, the robins from the city began to sing more softly. Presumably they do this because they are used to the noise. Scientists think they have learned to wait for the sounds to pass.
On the other hand, country robins reacted more strongly to the sounds of traffic. By waving vigorously and showing their red feathers, they probably wanted to compensate for the fact that they were less visible.
It is common for birds to interact competitively with newcomers. They tune their vocals or interact physically to mark their territory.
