‘Love hormone’ influences songbird’s choice of mentor

Published on May 18, 2023

Just like young songbirds learn to sing by imitating their elders, the ‘love hormone’ oxytocin guides them in selecting the right ‘voice coach.’ A new study highlights the important role of oxytocin in the process of social learning among zebra finches. Oxytocin, also known as the ‘love hormone,’ is a chemical messenger in the brain that affects social behavior and bonding. It acts as a guide for young birds as they choose which elder to imitate, helping them develop their own unique song. This research expands our knowledge of the neurochemistry underlying social learning in animals, and reinforces the idea that hormones can influence complex behaviors. To dive deeper into the fascinating world of zebra finch learning and oxytocin’s role in shaping vocal development, check out the full research article!

Oxytocin, the so-called ‘love hormone,’ plays a key role in the process of how a young zebra finch learns to sing by imitating its elders, suggests a new study which add to the understanding of the neurochemistry of social learning.

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