A superb lyrebird’s imitation of other birds and environmental sounds is called vocal mimicry.
Male superb lyrebirds are famous for incorporating the calls of multiple bird species into elaborate courtship performances. They may also imitate sounds from their surroundings, including camera shutters, chainsaws, or other human-made noises when those sounds are repeatedly heard. The imitation is produced vocally, rather than by physically reproducing an external sound.
The performance takes place during display behavior, when a male spreads and moves his ornate tail feathers. The song can last many minutes and may combine accurate imitations with the lyrebird’s own calls. Females can use the display as part of mate assessment.
Not every sound attributed to a lyrebird is necessarily a perfect recording. Imitation varies among individuals and habitats, and some famous examples are documented in captivity or close human contact. The species’ ability makes it one of the best-known vocal mimics in the animal kingdom.