Researchers at the University of Pittsburgh in Johnstown found that parrots are not just talented imitators of human speech. Their own “conversations” have structure, rules and even elements reminiscent of syntax.
Scientists studied the so-called “cooing duets” of yellow-naped amazons (Amazona auropalliata). Using the Voyant text analyzer, they identified clear patterns in the sequence of sounds. They recorded 36 different signal types that combine with one another and form stable pairs, similar to frequently occurring phrases in human language. At the same time, the structure of these “dialogues” remains flexible: parrots vary the combinations and create diverse sequences. The study shows that amazons use their own “lexicon” to interact with one another.
Yellow-naped amazons are known for their local “dialects” — differences in vocalization depending on the region. They live in Central America and are under threat of extinction because of illegal capture. The authors stress the need to protect their natural habitat.
In recent decades, science has increasingly been reconsidering the boundaries of animal intelligence. For centuries we taught parrots to repeat our words and admired their ability to copy. It turns out they have had their own language all along — and perhaps one far more interesting than a banal “hello.”
Source: Popular Science
Source URL: https://www.popsci.com/environment/parrots-complex-language-conversations/
Source date: 2026-02-20T15:01:58.819Z
