Is syllable repetitions a song parameter important for male-male interactions in Eurasian reed warbler (Acrocephalus scirpaceus)?

Abstract

Song complexity has been identified as one song characteristic important in female choice, whereas its role in male-male interactions is less clear and not much is known which song characteristics are specifically important for territorial defense. In Acrocephalus warblers, males seem to increase song complexity towards females but reduce it during territorial disputes. One possibility to reduce song complexity could be achieved by repeating individual syllables. In this context here we examined the importance of males repeating syllables in male-male interactions. We hypothesis that repeating syllables signals a males general fighting ability, aggressive status or willingness to attack. In a playback experiment we investigated the behavioral response of unmated, territorial Eurasian reed warbler (Acrocephalus scirpaceus) males towards two simultaneously singing intruders whereby the song of the two simulated intruders differs in the degree of syllable repetitions. The response of the territory owner was determined by using several behavioral parameters. Our results revealed that males approached faster and stayed significantly longer near the song with few syllable repetitions. However, the proportion of males approaching the song with high or low syllable repetitions first, as well as the minimal distance to which males approach to the two song types did not differ as well. Thus, the weaker response towards the high repetitive song playback suggests territorial males to be more intimidated by the aggressive nature of that song type.