Cornwall, UK – A new study shows that jackdaw chicks can learn to recognize predators by listening to adult birds, gaining crucial survival skills before leaving the nest.

Video footage captured nestlings responding to predator calls paired with adult alarm calls. Chicks became highly vigilant, raising their heads above their shoulders and moving to the back of the nestbox. Preening paused as the chicks focused on the threat, demonstrating clear social learning.

Researchers at the University of Exeter’s Centre for Ecology and Conservation played recordings of predator calls, such as those of the Eurasian goshawk, to nestlings in 39 cavities. Calls were paired with either alarm calls signaling danger or contact calls indicating safety. Chicks exposed to predator sounds with alarm calls showed strong fear responses, while those paired with contact calls did not.

“Our study shows that nestling jackdaws can learn about dangers they might encounter in the future by listening to adults,” said Hannah Broad, who led the research. “As they nest in cavities, jackdaws are fairly safe as nestlings. However, learning through trial-and-error after leaving the nest can be dangerous – so social learning as a chick could be highly valuable.”

A non-predatory birdcall, from the American golden plover, did not trigger fear responses, even with alarm calls, highlighting that chicks learn only biologically meaningful threats.

“With goshawks expanding their range in the UK, these learning processes may help jackdaws adapt to new threats,” said Professor Alex Thornton.

Podcast: Play in new window | Download