Vocal mimicry occurs in nearly 20% of songbird species, yet the constraints on mimetic accuracy and its consequences for function remain poorly understood, particularly in alarm calling and predator deterrence contexts. Abstract Kushini’s research focuses on the brown thornbill (Acanthiza pusilla), a native Australian songbird that mimics the alarm calls of several other bird species […]

Abstract Kim will talk about ants, and their habitats and relationships with other insects in the Australian National Botanic Gardens, Black Mountain Reserve and surrounding areas. Biography Kim grew up in Canberra and inherited an interest in nature, and particularly insects, from his father who was a professional botanist (and a boyhood butterfly and beetle […]