I think that if you read the neuroscience literature you will find that the freeze response occurs in many (perhaps most) species in the animal kingdom including humans (under traumatic conditions).  Think of the apparently "dead" mouse or chipmunk that springs to life when the cat drops it and walks away.  Similar responses are seen in gazelle when taken down by a lion.  Also, consider what happens to our species under what we call "panic" conditions.   In humans these very complex responses are governed by the vagal system.  
Can anyone comment on the neurology of this in birds?
Mardi Crane 
On Nov 24, 2013, at 9:49 AM, cynthia crawford wrote:

I have seen the "freeze" quite often.  Birds sit perfectly still when they perceive danger, presumably to not be noticed, at least no motion is perceived.

Cynthia Crawford

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On Sun, Nov 24, 2013 at 8:57 AM, Ursula Rudd <[log in to unmask]> wrote:
Last Friday on 29 November 2013,  a larger bird (unfamiliar to me, but larger than a American Robin, smaller than a dove, sleeker than a blue jay) crashed into my large window, but recovered to perch in a nearby tree.  At the exact same time two chickadees were feeding at my window feeder -- and surely heard the noise of the crash - froze in place for over a minute.  They looked like statues.  When a friend moved closer to that window, he saw their eyes move, but they were immobile.  I have bee watching chickadees at this feeder for almost 6 months now, and never have I seen them immobile.

I am wondering is this common behavior when they suspect a threat?  I am new to bird watching!

Any insight would be appreciated.

Sincerely,
--
Ursula Szczurek Rudd
E. Thetford
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Mardi Crane-Godreau, Ph.D.
Assistant Professor
Department of Microbiology and Immunology
Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth
HB 7936
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Lebanon, NH 03756
603-653-9970




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