Two New Birds Louder Than Jackhammers Just Dropped

Scientists have discovered two new contenders for the title of the world's loudest bird—the bare-throated bellbird and the red-legged seriema—both capable of producing calls exceeding 120 decibels, which is louder than a jackhammer, according to a study published in Evolution. These two species have joined the white bellbird, whose record-breaking call was identified in 2019, as the loudest birds known to science.

The new study, led by Dr. Jeff Podos and Dr. João C.T. Menezes, found that the bare-throated bellbird and the red-legged seriema produce calls in the same decibel range as the white bellbird. While it's challenging to determine a clear winner among the three birds due to differences in measurement techniques and individual variations, the trio represents a unique class of unusually loud avians.

The researchers also captured detailed measurements of vocal amplitude in 123 bird species, contributing to the understanding of why some species sing louder than others. Using laser rangefinders, a tool typically used in golfing, the team was able to accurately measure the distance between the recording device and the bird, correcting their amplitude readings for distance.

This approach allowed them to record amplitude measurements for other species, from hummingbirds at the lower end of the decibel range to the three loudest birds identified.

Interestingly, the team found no clear link between vocal loudness and ecological factors such as habitat or sexual behavior. While larger body size and wider beak openings were found to be associated with extreme loudness in the most deafening birds, other factors did not show a clear connection. Despite this, the researchers believe there is potential for discovering even louder birds, given that 120-125 decibels seems to be an upper limit for terrestrial animals.