Avian mobbing in different seasons and elevations: a playback experiment at Mt. Gongga
Year: 2026
Type: article
Abstract: Vocalization is an effective way that birds use to communicate. Rapid recognition of acoustic signals and behavioral responses is crucial for the survival and reproductive success of birds. Understanding how prey species respond to predator calls is important to understanding the avian community communication network. We played the sound of the Collared Owlet (Taenioptynx brodiei) in the forest habitats of eastern Mt. Gongga and compared differences in the response of avian communities in different seasons and elevations. We explored determinants of mobbing behavior at both species and community levels by integrating phylogenetic relationships, functional traits, and environmental factors. We found that mobbing assemblages were dominated by Passerines, with Paridae contributing the highest species richness and abundance. Interestingly, Green-backed Tit (Parus monticolus) was the most frequent and numerous participant, which was the primary initiator of collective anti-predator responses. Mobbing events were primarily driven by small-bodied bird species, and participation showed a positive correlation with the hand-wing index. Higher mobbing frequency and more intense behavioral responses occurred during the breeding season and in the 2,800–3,200 m elevational band. Additionally, resident birds exhibited significantly higher mobbing times compared to migrants. We also found a marginally significant negative correlation between the number of mobbing individuals and the ambient temperature. This study improved our understanding of anti-predator strategies of birds and set up an example for exploring the avian community communication network in other regions of the world.
Language: English
Topic: Avian ecology and behavior
Subfield: Ecology
Field: Environmental Science
Domain: Physical Sciences
SDG: Life on land
Open Access status: gold
Estimated APC paid: $2,350
OpenAlex ID: W7207843269