A new study by researchers from the University of Vienna has revealed that avian species, specifically rooks, are capable of intelligence and empathy, both traits that were previously thought to be unique to humans. The researchers set up puzzles for the birds to solve in order to receive a food reward and found that the rooks were able to solve them with ease and even come up with new solutions to old problems. Additionally, the birds also demonstrated a capacity for empathy by releasing a fellow rook from a box when given the opportunity. This challenges our previous beliefs about animal behavior and opens up new possibilities for coexisting with animals in our environment.

New study shows intelligence and empathy in avian species

For many years, humans have believed that we are the only species capable of intelligence and empathy. However, a new study has revealed that avian species are also capable of these traits.

How the study was conducted

The study was conducted by researchers from the University of Vienna and focused on a species of bird called the rook. To test the intelligence of these birds, the researchers set up a series of puzzles that the rooks needed to solve in order to receive a food reward.

What the researchers found was that the rooks were able to solve these puzzles with ease and were even able to come up with new solutions to old problems. This demonstrates that these birds have a high degree of intelligence and problem-solving abilities.

Additionally, the researchers also tested the empathy levels of the rooks. They did this by placing two boxes, one with a rook inside and one without. The rooks outside the box were then given a choice of which box to open, and the majority chose to free the bird from the box.

This shows that not only do rooks have high levels of intelligence, but they also have a capacity for empathy, which is a complex emotion that was previously thought to be unique to humans.

What this means for our understanding of avian species

This study is significant because it challenges the notion that humans are the only species that possess intelligence and empathy. It suggests that other species, particularly avian species, may also have these traits.

It’s important that we continue to study and learn about different species because it opens up new possibilities for how we can coexist and interact with animals in our environment.

Conclusion

The new study showing intelligence and empathy in avian species is a significant breakthrough that challenges our previous beliefs about animal behavior. It highlights the need for continued research and understanding of different species and can help us develop more compassionate ways of coexisting with animals in our environment.