03-05-2020, 12:39 AM
https://www.theguardian.com/science/2020...-decisions
Some parrots weigh up probabilities to help them make choices, researchers have found, in a study that provides the first evidence of this skill outside great apes.
Among previous studies, African grey parrots have been found to selflessly help their peers complete tasks and seem able to identify colours and count. Cockatoos meanwhile can keep track of an object’s location – even when it is hidden – and have been found to invent dance moves.
Now researchers have found kea, an endangered species from New Zealand and the world’s only alpine parrot, appear to use probabilities when taking a gamble.
While there have been hints that some other birds and certain monkeys may be able to do this, the team behind the new study say it is the first time this skill has clearly been shown outside of humans and other great apes.
Well, this is quite remarkable, really . I can sort of get birds being able to count, but being able to use probabilities to weigh up decision-making?! I thought that would be something that only humans can do!
I wonder what other creatures can do this?
Some parrots weigh up probabilities to help them make choices, researchers have found, in a study that provides the first evidence of this skill outside great apes.
Among previous studies, African grey parrots have been found to selflessly help their peers complete tasks and seem able to identify colours and count. Cockatoos meanwhile can keep track of an object’s location – even when it is hidden – and have been found to invent dance moves.
Now researchers have found kea, an endangered species from New Zealand and the world’s only alpine parrot, appear to use probabilities when taking a gamble.
While there have been hints that some other birds and certain monkeys may be able to do this, the team behind the new study say it is the first time this skill has clearly been shown outside of humans and other great apes.
Well, this is quite remarkable, really . I can sort of get birds being able to count, but being able to use probabilities to weigh up decision-making?! I thought that would be something that only humans can do!
I wonder what other creatures can do this?
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