Bare-throated bellbird and red-legged seriema identified as loudest bird contenders

Researchers have identified the bare-throated bellbird and the red-legged seriema as two new contenders for the world’s loudest bird calls. Both species produce sounds exceeding 120 peak decibels, a volume comparable to jackhammers or chainsaws.

The study, published in the journal Evolution, was conducted by Jeff Podos of the University of Massachusetts Amherst and João C. T. Menezes. To ensure accuracy in wild environments, the team utilized industrial-grade sound meters paired with laser rangefinders to calculate precise distances between the birds and the recording equipment. This methodology allowed for the collection of amplitude data for 123 bird species, 113 of which had never previously had their call volumes cataloged in this manner.

While the research identified these extreme vocalizations, the findings provided little evidence to support existing theories regarding why birds evolve such loudness. The researchers had hypothesized that high volume might be linked to factors such as dense forest habitats, weak flight capabilities, or specific mating systems, but the data did not strongly support these correlations. The study also noted that these birds may possess bulky muscles that facilitate greater air compression for their powerful calls.