Hi Allen

> I have often wondered if, for example, there are messages
modulating
> (encoded on) seemingly repetitive bird songs or within
many other familiar
> sounds of 'nature' such as the 'chirp' of a cricket, or
the buzz of a bee?

There are indeed.  Try here for information on the stingless
bee's 'beeps' to inform nest-mates of the distance to
forage.

http://www.americanscientist.org/template/AssetDetail/assetid/15789/page/5;jsessionid=baa9...#26440

(or Google for Melipona and dance)

And for an excellent report on the use of sound/vibration in
honeybee (that word 'use' will be contentious though!) try
this:

http://www.beekeeping.com/articles/us/bee_dance_2.htm

all the best

Gavin

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