It’s important to understand these territories, says Zamarelli, because they offer a window into “the quality of the forest habitat for these birds.” Territories mean the forest is a healthy place for birds. For more than half a century, that work has continued, revealing insights about the birds and their changing home. ZAMMARELLI: They’re basically having what I call a territorial rap battle. DANIEL: Dick Holmes, who’s here in the forest with us, as well, unfolds one of the paper maps. The birds will continue to layer the air with melody, singing the collective song of their forest.