How do songbird brains create new neurons?

A new study sheds new light on how songbird brains refresh themselves—findings that could one day open the door to new human therapies.

Despite its small size—typically only several inches, beak to tail—the zebra finch is a remarkable learner. A songbird native to Australia, it’s renowned for its ability to pick up new songs.

That talent has made it a favorite of scientists studying how animal brains imprint n...