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It has been speculated that the gene FOXP2 on chromosome 7 is linked to the uniquely human skill of processing language. Researchers have proposed that it is also linked to the ability of song birds, like the canary, to learn their beautifully complex songs.

They have also suggested that the role this gene plays is linked to neuroplasticity - thow your brain changes over time. To learn something, the brain must change. Research is still continuing, but in the meantime you can enjoy this beautiful bird in action.

With thanks to BBSRC: http://bbsrc.ac.uk/

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