Mockingbirds from Constant Wonder

We’re happy to share a special feature from our friends at Constant Wonder. Hosted by Marcus Smith, their "Mockingbirds" episode takes you through the complexity of mockingbird songs and why these birds mix hundreds of songs together using sophisticated musical techniques. Constant Wonder’s guiding principle is based on the idea that encounters with wonder and awe are real and spark a sense of mystery and surprise, and the show celebrates these experiences.

Darwin hated peacocks because he couldn't explain their excess beauty. He likely would have hated mockingbirds for the excessive complexity of their songs. Where many birds are content with a few simple chirps, mockingbirds learn hundreds of sounds from other birds and animals and mix them together using sophisticated musical techniques, the kind human musicians often employ. Their songs go far, far beyond anything necessary to find food, defend territory, or attract a mate. Why do they do it?

Find Constant Wonder on Apple Podcasts or Spotify, or in your favorite podcast app.