Biology: Mimicry - Innate or Learned Behaviour?

[Exhausted]

Homework Statement

How does animal mimicry classify as a behaviour, innate or learned behaviour or both?

For example, parrot mimic human speech, obviously, they learned this behaviour, from us. However, considering their ability to learn from us, does that make this mimicry behaviour, innate behaviour? If so, how would one classify mimicry, (in cases of parrot mimicing human speech, monkeys copy our actions), as a behaviour in terms of innate or learned behaviour? Could someone please help me?

Your help is much appreciated :D

 

[Asim Riaz]

Homework EquationsN/AThe Attempt at a SolutionMimicry can be classified as both an innate and a learned behavior. Innate mimicry is defined as a behavior that is genetically determined and passed down from parent to offspring. The animal has an instinctive ability to mimic the behaviors of other animals or humans. For example, some species of birds have been known to imitate the calls of other birds in order to attract mates. Learned mimicry is defined as a behavior that is developed through observation and experience. This type of mimicry occurs when an animal learns to mimic the behaviors of other animals or humans. For example, parrots are able to mimic human speech after they have been exposed to it. Monkeys may also copy our actions after watching us for a period of time.