M. Gahr

The hidden structural variability in avian genomes

This study identifies high structural variant density on avian W chromosomes using long-read and linked-read assemblies, revealing greater genetic variability than previously thought.

Telemetry reveals rapid duel-driven song plasticity in a naturalistic social environment

The paper shows that male canaries adjust their song length rapidly during breeding season duels, enhancing performance, and reveals a new form of song plasticity distinct from imitation-based learning.

Functional differences in the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis are associated with alternative reproductive tactics based on an inversion polymorphism

The study examines how an inversion polymorphism affects hormonal and transcriptomic differences in the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis of male Ruffs, revealing morph-specific hormonal regulation in the gonads.

Causal Understanding of the Stone Dropping Task in Two Species of Macaw

This study examines causal understanding in two macaw species using a stone-dropping task, finding that subjects innovate solutions but struggle with a transfer task involving stick tools.

Morphological facilitators for vocal learning explored through the syrinx anatomy of a basal hummingbird

The paper examines the syrinx anatomy of a basal hummingbird to identify morphological features that may facilitate vocal learning.

Vocal motor experiences consolidate the vocal motor circuitry and accelerate future vocal skill development

The paper shows that prior vocal experience in songbirds accelerates skill recovery and causes lasting synaptic changes in the vocal motor circuitry.