Data from: Geographic patterns of song variation reveal timing of song acquisition in a wild avian population

Geographic patterns of song variation are common in passerines and can
develop as a consequence of the mechanisms of song acquisition and
dispersal. In particular, the timing of dispersal relative to the sensory
learning phase and the time of song crystallization is important. For
example, when the sensory phase continues after dispersal or when males
learn new songs every breeding season, i.e. open-ended learner,
neighborhoods can develop where males share their songs. In this study, we
utilize a unique, comprehensive dispersal and song recording dataset to
investigate the existence and development of micro-geographic song
variation in a wild passerine population. Machine learning song analysis
methods allow us to overcome perceptual bias in the classification of the
songs of New Zealand hihi (Notiomystis cincta). We show that males share
more song elements of their repertoire with their neighbors than with more
distant males or with males from the same natal area, implying that
repertoire is acquired post-dispersal. Finally, we suggest that high
levels of male competition have driven the development of post-dispersal
vocal learning behavior in this species.