It turns out that cockatoos can use tools like primates

Known for his interesting physical features cockatoo parrots There are more than 20 species in nature. These highly skilled birds are of particular importance as they are among the few animals that can produce ‘tools’ that can benefit them. Now scientists have published a new study on tool use by these birds.

First of all, it should be said that very few animals are capable of using tools. Chimpanzees cracking walnuts with tools are an example of this. In the study published in Scientific Reports at the end of last month, parrots called Goffin cockatoos were found apart from primates. compound instrument They turned out to be the first animals to have the ability to use

They develop their own methods for the solution

Researchers at the University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, to golf He designed a similar experiment to test the tool-using skills of parrots. In the experiment, which is described as a puzzle, the birds were expected to pass the ball through the hole in the middle of a box and move the ball through a stick to remove the cashew prize from the box in order to reach the prize. As a result of the examinations, 5 of the 11 birds participating in the experiment answered the puzzle. able to solveIt was observed that , could reach the reward using two different tools and the solution time was shortened each time.

Regarding the experiment, the researchers wrote in their article, “These results show that cockatoo birds will take the necessary steps immediately. can identify, memorize, and how strong their problem-solving skills are is showing” used the phrases. It was also stated in the study that the birds that solved the puzzle used different techniques.

According to the explanations, three parrots who were successful in the experiment, own individual techniques succeeded in reaching the award. Antonio Osuna-Mascaro, the lead author of the study, said that one of the birds sticks the stick between their beak, one between the tongue and the tip of the beak, and one between the tip of the beak. holding it with your legs expressed. This showed that cockatoo birds can use different parts of the body for tool use in a similar way to humans.

‘They can learn the solution through observation’

Experts say that the bird’s ability is under 8 years old and it is difficult to find solutions to such problems. kids He says he’s been compared to Sarah Beck, of the University of Birmingham, also said:“Comparing different species helps us understand how humans and other creatures develop impressive skills.” made statements.

In addition, the researchers said that not all parrots could reach the solution; however, other parrots also ‘observation’ He stated that he could learn to solve the puzzle by doing it. However, it was underlined again that this could be achieved not by imitation, but by developing their own methods. An example of this was the parrot named Figaro, who refused to play by the rules. This parrot studied the box in detail and found a way to reach the prize by simply using the stick and lifting the box without using the ball.

Adding to his words that some parrots who could not solve the puzzle got angry and tried to damage the box, the experts said that the reason for this situation was that the birds experienced the success of other parrots. frustration noted that it might.