Are There Any Birds That Make No Sound?

Introduction

While most birds are known for their singing and vocalizations, some species are notably silent. This article explores whether there are birds that make no sound at all, examining species like the kiwi, ostrich, and hummingbird, and addressing common misconceptions about bird vocalizations.

Silent Birds: Kiwis and Ostriches

Among the species that stand out for their relatively quiet behavior are the kiwi from New Zealand and the ostrich. These birds are generally quiet and rarely produce the high-pitched vocalizations typical of other birds.

Kiwi (Apteryx sp.)s are famed for their silence. These flightless birds are known to make low-frequency sounds, but these are far less frequent and melodious than those of their vocal counterparts. Kiwis are often described as 'mute' due to their minimal vocalization, though they can produce some calls, especially during courtship or danger.

Ostrich (Struthio camelus) are also relatively silent. Ostriches can make some noises such as hisses and snorts, but they are not known for melodious songs or frequent vocal communications. However, it's important to note that they do have a limited repertoire of sounds.

The Myth of the Hummingbird

The hummingbird stands out as the bird that produces so little sound that it can be said to make no sound at all. Hummingbirds are known for their rapid wing beats, and their flight is almost silent, making them a fascinating subject in the realm of avian quietness.

However, it's worth mentioning that the concept of a completely silent bird is a misconception. Even if a bird is not vocal, it can still produce sounds, such as through the flapping of wings or other actions. In the case of the hummingbird, its flight consists of the high-speed vibration of its wings, which minimizes noise.

Common Beliefs and Misconceptions

There are several common beliefs and misconceptions about bird vocalizations. One such belief is that the Norwegian Blue Parrot is mute when it is pining for the fjords. In reality, the Norwegian Blue Parrot, as described in Douglas Adams' The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy, is a mythical bird and not a real species. However, this belief has led to the use of phrases like "pining for the fjords" to describe someone who is sad or longing for something.

Another common misconception is that some birds, like storks, are entirely silent. However, even storks, despite their reduced vocalizations, do have the syrinx, a bird's vocal organ. While storks do not often make sounds, they possess the necessary structures to produce them.

According to Wikipedia, storks are not mute as is often reported. They do have a syrinx, which is a specialized type of syrinx found in certain species of birds. The syrinxes of storks are unique and can produce sounds when necessary, even if not frequently.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while there may not be any birds that make absolutely no sound, several species, such as kiwis and ostriches, stand out for their relative silence. Even in the case of highly vocal species, it is rare for them to be completely mute. Understanding the vocal behavior of birds is important for researchers, birdwatchers, and bird enthusiasts alike.

So, while the idea of a completely silent bird may seem intriguing, it is a myth. Birds produce sounds through various means, from wing flapping to specialized vocal structures, ensuring they remain a fascinating and vocal part of the natural world.