Bird minds

Abstract

Higher cognition is one of the more controversial fields in avian research. This symposium presents results of new laboratory and field research in this area, showing that characteristics usually associated with the great apes are present in birds, and thus present without an increase in brain size or a neocortex. These findings suggest that some avian species do not merely respond to effects but are capable of planned action and intentional communication. ... Evidence of use of referential communication, complex learning, manufacture of tools and problem-solving in avian species suggests that it may no longer be possible to dismiss these cases as rare. We may need to consider that these traits demonstrate higher cognitive abilities approaching, perhaps even rivaling, those of primates.