Songbirds possess a musical instrument more complex than anything found in an orchestra, a study has confirmed.
Known as the syrinx, it is the bird's version of the voice box or larynx in humans.
Scientists used 3D imaging to examine the structure, located where the windpipe forks into the lungs.
They showed how muscles, cartilage and bone work together to allow birds to sing highly intricate songs even in flight.
We moderate all comments on HeraldScotland on either a pre-moderated or post-moderated basis. If you're a relatively new user then your comments will be reviewed before publication and if we know you well then your comments will be subject to moderation only if other users or the moderators believe you've broken the rules, which are available here.
Moderation is undertaken full-time 9am-6pm on weekdays, and on a part-time basis outwith those hours. Please be patient if your posts are not approved instantly.
