Initial observation of human-bird vocal interactions in a zoological setting

Vocal interactions between humans and non-human animals are pervasive, but studies are often limited to communication within species. Here, we conducted a pilot exploration of vocal interactions between visitors to the San Diego Zoo Safari Park and Sampson, an 18-year-old male Hyacinth Macaw residing near the entrance. Over the course of one hour, 82 vocal and behavioral events were recorded, and various relationships between human and bird behavior were noted. Analyses of this type, applied to large datasets with assistance from artificial intelligence, could be used to better understand the impacts, positive or negative, of human visitors on animals in managed care.