Australians have been mystified recently by the sounds of chattering—human, English chattering—in the woods in various parts of the country. Observers have now determined that the source is birds—wild birds that have actually been taught to speak by, or at any rate learned to copy, their tame pet counterparts. Yes, escaped parrots and cockatoos are imparting their vital communication skills to feral birds, who can now say "Hello, cockie!" "G'day, mate!" and lots and lots of swear words. (Posted May 1, 2012)