Using these mechanical sounds in their song gives lyrebirds a competitive edge over other birds in attracting females. Lyrebirds are known for their remarkable ability to mimic a wide variety of sounds, including the songs of other birds, human speech, and artificial sounds like chainsaws and camera shutters.
Here are some specific reasons why lyrebirds use mechanical sounds in their mimicry:
1. Increased repertoire: By incorporating mechanical sounds, lyrebirds can expand their vocal repertoire and make their songs more diverse and interesting.
2. Attracting attention: The novelty and unexpectedness of mechanical sounds in nature can capture the attention of female lyrebirds and other listeners, making the male lyrebird more noticeable.
3. Stimulating curiosity: The ability to mimic mechanical sounds can pique the curiosity of female lyrebirds and make them more likely to approach the male.
4. Demonstrating vocal flexibility and learning capabilities: Lyrebirds display their impressive learning abilities and vocal flexibility by successfully mimicking complex and unusual sounds like mechanical noises, which females may find attractive.
5. Cultural transmission and teaching: Lyrebird songs are often passed down from one generation to another, and the inclusion of novel sounds, such as mechanical ones, can become a part of the learned cultural repertoire.
6. Territorial defense: Lyrebirds may also use mechanical sounds as a form of territorial defense, warning other males and establishing their presence in the area.
7. Communication: Although the exact meaning and purpose of all the sounds lyrebirds produce are not fully understood, some mechanical sounds may have specific meanings or functions in communication between lyrebirds.
Overall, the use of mechanical sounds in lyrebird mimicry serves as a display of vocal prowess, creativity, and adaptability, attracting females and adding richness and complexity to their songs.