There are more than 20 species of cockatoo parrots, known for their interesting physical features. 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 the tool use of these birds.
First of all, it should be said that very few animals have the ability to use tools. Chimpanzees cracking walnuts with tools are an example of this. In a study published in Scientific Reports at the end of last month, it was revealed that parrots, called the Goffin cockatoo, were the first animals other than primates to have the ability to use compound tools.
They develop their own method for the solution
Researchers at the University of Veterinary Medicine, Vienna designed a golfe-like experiment to test the parrots’ tool-using skills. 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, it was observed that 5 of the 11 birds participating in the experiment could solve the puzzle, reach the prize using two different tools, and the solution time was shortened each time.
The researchers said in their article about the experiment, “These results show that cockatoo birds can quickly identify and memorize the necessary steps, and how strong their problem-solving abilities are.” It was also stated in the study that the birds that solved the puzzle used different techniques.
According to the explanations, the three parrots who were successful in the experiment managed to reach the prize by developing their own individual techniques. The lead author of the study, Antonio Osuna-Mascaro, stated that one of the birds was holding the stick with their beak, one between their tongue and beak, and one with their legs. 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 recommend that birds below 8 years of age find solutions to such problems. He also says that he is compared with children who have difficulties. Sarah Beck from the University of Birmingham said: “Comparing different species helps us understand how humans and other creatures develop impressive skills.”
In addition, the researchers said that not all parrots could reach the solution; however, he stated that other parrots can also learn to solve the puzzle by ‘observing’. 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 that some parrots who could not solve the puzzle got angry and tried to damage the box, the experts noted that the reason for this might be the disappointment experienced as a result of the birds seeing other parrots succeed.
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