The parrots having human-like conversations
Popular Science
by Margherita BassiFebruary 20, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Parrots, particularly yellow-naped amazons, are capable of complex communication resembling human-like conversations. These highly social birds from Central America use intricate vocal signals, including warble duets, which contain 36 distinct call types. Research conducted by Christine Dahlin and her team reveals that these duets exhibit language-like characteristics, such as syntactic rules and flexible variations, making them comparable to human speech patterns.
Yellow-naped amazons are critically endangered due to habitat loss and illegal pet trade. Their communication is not only a means of expression but also reflects regional dialects influenced by environmental factors like climate change. Dahlin’s study, published in the Journal of Avian Biology, utilized text-analysis software to decode these duets, uncovering organizational similarities with human language.
The research highlights the cognitive abilities of parrots and their sophisticated use of vocalizations in wild settings. This work emphasizes the importance of protecting these birds in their natural habitats rather than capturing them for pets. Understanding their communication methods could provide insights into animal behavior and cognition, contributing to broader scientific advancements.
By studying parrots like yellow-naped amazons, scientists gain valuable knowledge about animal intelligence and social structures. This research not only underscores the uniqueness of these birds but also calls attention to the urgent need for conservation efforts to ensure their survival in the wild.
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Originally published on Popular Science on 2/20/2026