Chapter 1. Problem Solving in Genus Corvus (Crows, Ravens, and Magpies)
1.1 Problem Solving in Genus Corvus (Crows, Ravens, and Magpies)
Short Description
Do animals think? Can they solve problems? How do they cope with novel situations?
Long Description
Do animals think? Can they solve problems? How do they cope with novel situations? In this video, birds of the genus Corvus (crows, ravens, magpies) confront the challenge of retrieving food from a long glass tube.
As the clip opens, a bird finds two short wires atop a glass tube. The bird uses one of the wires to poke at the food in the bottom of the tube. Animals (as well as humans) often approach problems through trial and error.
After several unsuccessful attempts to secure the food, the bird withdraws the wire from the tube and, with some effort, bends the wire into a small hook. Demonstrating insight, the bird returns the hooked wire to the tube and, using it as a tool, successfully lifts the basket of food to the top.