innovative problem solving in macaws

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Innovative problem solving in macaws

Affiliations.

• 1 Max Planck Institute for Ornithology, 82319, Seewiesen, Germany. [email protected].
• 2 Max Planck Comparative Cognition Research Station, Loro Parque Fundacion, 38400, Puerto de la Cruz, Tenerife, Spain. [email protected].
• 3 Max Planck Comparative Cognition Research Station, Loro Parque Fundacion, 38400, Puerto de la Cruz, Tenerife, Spain.
• 4 Behavioural Ecology Group, Department of Animal Sciences, Wageningen University and Research, Wageningen, the Netherlands.
• 5 Max Planck Institute for Ornithology, 82319, Seewiesen, Germany. [email protected].
• 6 Max Planck Comparative Cognition Research Station, Loro Parque Fundacion, 38400, Puerto de la Cruz, Tenerife, Spain. [email protected].
• 7 Department Biology II, Ludwig-Maximilians-University of Munich, Martinsried, Germany. [email protected].
• PMID: 33289065
• PMCID: PMC7979646
• DOI: 10.3758/s13420-020-00449-y

Behavioural innovations with tool-like objects in non-habitually tool-using species are thought to require complex physical understanding, but the underlying cognitive processes remain poorly understood. A few parrot species are capable of innovating tool-use and borderline tool-use behaviours. We tested this capacity in two species of macaw (Ara ambiguus, n = 9; Ara glaucogularis, n = 8) to investigate if they could solve a problem-solving task through manufacture of a multi-stone construction. Specifically, after having functional experience with a pre-inserted stick tool to push a reward out of a horizontal tube, the subjects were required to insert five stones consecutively from one side to perform the same function as the stick tool with the resulting multi-component construction. One Ara glaucogularis solved the task and innovated the stone construction after the experience with the stick tool. Two more subjects (one of each species) did so after having further functional experience of a single stone pushing a reward out of a shortened tube. These subjects were able to consistently solve the task, but often made errors, for example counter-productive stone insertions from the opposing end, even in some of the successful trials. Conversely, multiple trials without errors also suggested a strong goal direction. Their performance in the follow-up tasks was inconclusive since they sometimes inserted stones into un-baited or blocked 'dummy tubes', but this could have been an attention-deficit behaviour as subjects had not encountered these 'dummy tubes' before. Overall, the successful subjects' performance was so erratic that it proved difficult to conclude whether they had functional understanding of their multi-stone constructions.

Keywords: Causal understanding; Comparative cognition; Innovation; Parrot cognition; Physical cognition; Tool use.

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Innovative problem solving in macaws

AbstractBehavioural innovations with tool-like objects in non-habitually tool-using species are thought to require complex physical understanding, but the underlying cognitive processes remain poorly understood. A few parrot species are capable of innovating tool-use and borderline tool-use behaviours. We tested this capacity in two species of macaw (Ara ambiguus, n = 9; Ara glaucogularis, n = 8) to investigate if they could solve a problem-solving task through manufacture of a multi-stone construction. Specifically, after having functional experience with a pre-inserted stick tool to push a reward out of a horizontal tube, the subjects were required to insert five stones consecutively from one side to perform the same function as the stick tool with the resulting multi-component construction. One Ara glaucogularis solved the task and innovated the stone construction after the experience with the stick tool. Two more subjects (one of each species) did so after having further functional experience of a single stone pushing a reward out of a shortened tube. These subjects were able to consistently solve the task, but often made errors, for example counter-productive stone insertions from the opposing end, even in some of the successful trials. Conversely, multiple trials without errors also suggested a strong goal direction. Their performance in the follow-up tasks was inconclusive since they sometimes inserted stones into un-baited or blocked ‘dummy tubes’, but this could have been an attention-deficit behaviour as subjects had not encountered these ‘dummy tubes’ before. Overall, the successful subjects’ performance was so erratic that it proved difficult to conclude whether they had functional understanding of their multi-stone constructions.

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Innovative problem solving in macaws

Mps-authors.

O'Neill,  Laurie IMPRS for Organismal Biology, Seewiesen, Max Planck Institut für Ornithologie, Max Planck Society; Gruppe von Bayern, Seewiesen, Max Planck Institut für Ornithologie, Max Planck Society;

von Bayern,  Auguste Marie Philippa Gruppe von Bayern, Seewiesen, Max Planck Institut für Ornithologie, Max Planck Society;

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O'Neill, L., Rasyidi, R., Hastings, R., & von Bayern, A. M. P. (2021). Innovative problem solving in macaws. Learning & Behavior, 49 (1), 106-123. doi:10.3758/s13420-020-00449-y.

Innovative problem solving in macaws

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Behavioural innovations with tool-like objects in non-habitually tool-using species are thought to require complex physical understanding, but the underlying cognitive processes remain poorly understood. A few parrot species are capable of innovating tool-use and borderline tool-use behaviours. We tested this capacity in two species of macaw (Ara ambiguus, n = 9; Ara glaucogularis, n = 8) to investigate if they could solve a problem-solving task through manufacture of a multi-stone construction. Specifically, after having functional experience with a pre-inserted stick tool to push a reward out of a horizontal tube, the subjects were required to insert five stones consecutively from one side to perform the same function as the stick tool with the resulting multi-component construction. One Ara glaucogularis solved the task and innovated the stone construction after the experience with the stick tool. Two more subjects (one of each species) did so after having further functional experience of a single stone pushing a reward out of a shortened tube. These subjects were able to consistently solve the task, but often made errors, for example counter-productive stone insertions from the opposing end, even in some of the successful trials. Conversely, multiple trials without errors also suggested a strong goal direction. Their performance in the follow-up tasks was inconclusive since they sometimes inserted stones into un-baited or blocked ‘dummy tubes’, but this could have been an attention-deficit behaviour as subjects had not encountered these ‘dummy tubes’ before. Overall, the successful subjects’ performance was so erratic that it proved difficult to conclude whether they had functional understanding of their multi-stone constructions.

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• Causal understanding
• Comparative cognition
• Parrot cognition
• Physical cognition

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O’Neill, L., Rasyidi, R., Hastings, R., & von Bayern, A. M. P. (2021). Innovative problem solving in macaws. Learning and Behavior , 49 (1), 106–123. https://doi.org/10.3758/s13420-020-00449-y

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Two macaw species can learn to solve an optimised two-trap problem, but without functional causal understanding

The trap-tube paradigm is a useful reference for judging whether a species is likely to use advanced physical causal cognition, however it does not have a standardised format. In this study, the design of an optimised two trap-table is described and is then tested on two species of macaw: Ara ambiguus and Ara glaucogularis . Multiple subjects of both species learned a successful method to solve an initial trap-problem and some transferred this success to other apparatus presented. However this transfer was likely achieved without a functional physical understanding of the task. The macaws probably have a preference to use learned rules based on arbitrary properties to solve the trap-problem. We conclude that this setup of the two-trap-problem is a viable benchmark that could be administered to a variety of species with very little modification, thus paving the way for more directly comparative studies.

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Innovative problem solving in macaws

Behavioural innovations with tool-like objects in non-habitually tool-using species are thought to require complex physical understanding, but the underlying cognitive processes remain poorly understood. A few parrot species are capable of innovating tool-use and borderline tool-use behaviours. We t...

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Parrotlets Vs. Macaws: Who Reigns As The Smarter Parrot Species?

• Last updated Dec 21, 2023
• Difficulty Beginner

• Category Parrotlet

When it comes to the intelligence of parrots, the first birds that often come to mind are macaws - known for their incredible ability to mimic human speech and perform complex tasks. However, there is a small and often overlooked bird that might just give macaws a run for their money: the parrotlet. Despite their diminutive size, these pint-sized parrots possess a surprising amount of intelligence and are often considered to be one of the smartest parrot species. In this article, we will delve into the world of parrotlets and explore just how they stack up against their larger, more famous counterparts, the macaws, in terms of intelligence.

What You'll Learn

What cognitive abilities or skills are commonly associated with parrotlets, what cognitive abilities or skills are commonly associated with macaws, how do parrotlets and macaws compare in terms of problem-solving abilities, are there any studies or research that directly compare the intelligence of parrotlets and macaws, are there any factors other than intelligence that could influence the perceived smartness of parrotlets and macaws.

Parrotlets are small pet parrots that have gained popularity due to their intelligence and playful nature. These birds are known for their ability to mimic human speech and perform various tricks. But what cognitive abilities or skills are commonly associated with parrotlets? Let's take a closer look at some of the remarkable abilities these birds possess.

Learning and Problem Solving:

Parrotlets are highly intelligent birds capable of learning new tasks and solving problems. They have a curious nature and enjoy exploring their surroundings. With proper training and positive reinforcement, parrotlets can quickly learn to perform tricks, maneuver puzzles, and open simple locks.

For example, many parrotlet owners have trained their birds to retrieve objects, such as small balls, and place them in a specific container. This task requires problem-solving skills and the ability to follow commands. Parrotlets have been observed to solve such puzzles with ease, demonstrating their cognitive abilities.

Vocal and Verbal Skills:

Parrotlets are known for their impressive vocal and verbal skills. These birds can mimic various sounds and voices, including human speech. With consistent training and exposure, parrotlets can learn to speak and understand a wide range of words and phrases. Some parrotlets can even hold short conversations with their owners.

For instance, a parrotlet named Paco became famous for his ability to speak over 700 words and understand their meanings. Paco's impressive verbal skills showcased his cognitive abilities, including memory and comprehension.

Memory and Recall:

Parrotlets have excellent memory and recall abilities. They can remember specific commands, names, and routines. This cognitive skill allows them to associate words or actions with particular meanings or outcomes. Parrotlets can recall this information even after a considerable period, showcasing their impressive memory retention.

Anecdotal evidence suggests that parrotlets can remember and recognize faces, making them highly perceptive to their human companions. Some parrotlets have been known to remember visitors or family members they had not seen in a long time, further demonstrating their cognitive abilities.

Tool Use and Manipulation:

Parrotlets have shown remarkable tool use and manipulation abilities. They can use objects in their environment to solve problems or accomplish tasks. For example, parrotlets have been observed using sticks to retrieve food placed out of reach or open simple locks by manipulating objects with their beaks.

One study conducted on wild parrotlets found that they use tools to extract food from tree bark. This behavior indicates their ability to understand cause and effect relationships and employ tools to achieve their goals. These observations highlight the cognitive abilities of parrotlets in the wild.

In conclusion, parrotlets are highly intelligent birds with impressive cognitive abilities. They possess problem-solving skills, vocal and verbal capabilities, excellent memory and recall, and even tool use and manipulation abilities. Proper training and enrichment can help harness and further develop these cognitive skills in pet parrotlets. Their remarkable abilities make them fascinating and engaging companions for bird lovers and enthusiasts.

Are Parrotlets Messy? Unveiling the Truth About These Colorful Birds

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Macaws are highly intelligent birds known for their vibrant colors, strong beaks, and ability to mimic human speech. These fascinating creatures possess a range of cognitive abilities and skills that contribute to their adaptability and survival in the wild. In this article, we will explore some of the cognitive abilities commonly associated with macaws.

• Problem-solving: Macaws have excellent problem-solving skills and can devise innovative solutions to overcome obstacles. For example, in the wild, macaws use their beaks to crack open nuts or fruits to access the nutritious contents inside. They exhibit patience and persistence as they work through the problem, showing an understanding of cause and effect.
• Tool use: Macaws are skilled at using tools to aid in their foraging and preening activities. In captivity, macaws have been observed using sticks or other objects to scratch hard-to-reach areas of their body or manipulate objects. This demonstrates their ability to utilize external objects to achieve a desired outcome.
• Memory: Macaws have excellent long-term memory capabilities. They can remember specific locations where they have hidden food or toys, which allows them to retrieve them at a later time. This ability is crucial for their survival in the wild, as it helps them remember the locations of important food sources or potential threats.
• Imitation and mimicry: Macaws are well-known for their ability to imitate human speech and other sounds. This skill is a result of their remarkable vocal learning abilities. Macaws can mimic a wide variety of sounds, including human speech, phone rings, or even other animal calls. This ability allows them to communicate with their human caretakers or establish their territory in the wild.
• Social cognition: Macaws are highly social birds and possess advanced social cognitive abilities. They can recognize and remember individual faces and voices, both in humans and other birds. This helps them establish bonds within their flock and maintain social hierarchies. Macaws also exhibit empathy and can understand the emotions of their human companions, providing comfort and support when needed.
• Self-awareness: Macaws have the ability to recognize themselves in mirrors, which is considered a sign of self-awareness. This cognitive ability is quite rare in the animal kingdom and indicates a high level of intelligence. It suggests that macaws have a sense of individuality and can distinguish themselves from their surroundings.

In conclusion, macaws possess a range of cognitive abilities and skills that contribute to their adaptability and survival. These include problem-solving, tool use, memory, imitation, social cognition, and self-awareness. Understanding these cognitive abilities can help us appreciate the intelligence and complexity of these incredible birds.

The Price Range of Parrotlets: What to Expect

Parrotlets and macaws are both popular pet birds known for their intelligence and problem-solving abilities. However, there are significant differences between these two species when it comes to their problem-solving skills. In this article, we will explore the various aspects of problem-solving abilities in parrotlets and macaws.

Scientific studies have shown that parrotlets and macaws possess different cognitive capabilities. Parrotlets are small parrots that are known for their curious and inquisitive nature. They are great problem solvers and can figure out simple puzzles and tasks with ease. Macaws, on the other hand, are larger parrots known for their impressive problem-solving abilities. They have been observed to solve complex puzzles and can even use tools to accomplish certain tasks.

In terms of experience, parrotlets and macaws differ in the level of problem-solving challenges they have been exposed to. Parrotlets are commonly kept as pets and are often provided with simple puzzle toys to keep them mentally stimulated. While they may not have the same problem-solving experiences as macaws, they are still capable of learning and figuring out solutions to simple problems. Macaws, on the other hand, have been observed in the wild using tools and solving complex problems to obtain food or access their surroundings. This experience gives them a greater repertoire of problem-solving skills compared to parrotlets.

When it comes to problem-solving abilities, the process varies between parrotlets and macaws. Parrotlets typically take a step-by-step approach to solve problems. They analyze the problem, explore different options, and gradually develop a solution. Macaws, on the other hand, have been observed to possess a more strategic approach. They can quickly assess a situation, identify the problem, and come up with a solution in a more efficient manner.

Examples of problem-solving abilities in parrotlets and macaws further highlight the differences between these two species. A parrotlet may be presented with a puzzle toy that requires them to manipulate different parts to access a reward. Over time, they will learn to navigate the puzzle and find the reward. In contrast, a macaw may be given a complex puzzle that requires them to use tools to access a treat hidden inside a box. The macaw will quickly assess the situation, choose the appropriate tool, and use it to unlock the box and obtain the reward.

In conclusion, parrotlets and macaws both possess problem-solving abilities, but the extent and level of complexity differ between these two species. Parrotlets are capable problem solvers but may not exhibit the same level of skill and strategic thinking as macaws. Macaws, with their larger size and more extensive problem-solving experiences, are known for their impressive cognitive abilities. Whether you have a parrotlet or a macaw as a pet, providing them with appropriate mental stimulation and problem-solving challenges is essential for their well-being and cognitive development.

Parrotlets: A Perfect Addition to Your Family

Parrots are known for their intelligence and ability to learn and mimic human speech. However, the extent of their intelligence can vary among different species of parrots. Parrotlets and macaws are two popular types of parrots, but is one species smarter than the other?

While there have been studies on the intelligence of various parrot species, there is a lack of direct comparison between the intelligence of parrotlets and macaws specifically. Most studies focus on larger and more well-known parrot species such as African grey parrots and cockatoos.

Nevertheless, it is important to note that intelligence can be difficult to measure and compare across species. Traditional measures of intelligence, such as problem-solving ability and tool use, may not capture the full range of cognitive abilities of parrots. Parrot intelligence is often assessed through tasks that measure learning ability, memory, and communication skills.

In terms of learning ability, both parrotlets and macaws have been observed to be capable of learning tricks and commands from their owners. Parrotlets, despite their small size, are known to be quick learners and can be trained to perform a wide range of tricks. Macaws, on the other hand, are known for their remarkable mimicry skills and can imitate human speech and sounds with great accuracy.

Memory is another important aspect of intelligence. While there are no specific studies comparing memory performance between parrotlets and macaws, parrots in general have been shown to have excellent memory abilities. They can remember specific tasks, commands, and even recognize specific individuals or objects.

Communication skills are yet another facet of parrot intelligence. Parrotlets and macaws are both known for their ability to imitate human speech and other sounds. However, macaws are considered to be more proficient in this regard due to their larger vocal repertoire. Macaws have been found to have a better understanding of human language and can use it to communicate their needs and desires.

Ultimately, it is challenging to directly compare the intelligence of parrotlets and macaws without specific studies comparing the two species. The intelligence of parrots can vary based on various factors, including individual differences, training, and socialization. It is also worth noting that intelligence is not the sole measure of a parrot's worth or abilities. Each species has its unique characteristics and talents that make them special in their own way.

In conclusion, while there are no direct studies comparing the intelligence of parrotlets and macaws, both species have demonstrated intelligence in various aspects such as learning, memory, and communication. Parrotlets are known for their quick learning abilities, while macaws excel in mimicry and vocal communication. Further research and direct comparison between these two species could provide more insights into their cognitive abilities and intelligence.

Parrotlets vs. Cockatiels: Decoding Intelligence

When it comes to measuring intelligence in animals, it can be difficult to determine all the factors that contribute to their perceived smartness. In the case of parrotlets and macaws, intelligence is not solely determined by their cognitive abilities, but also by other factors such as behavior, communication skills, and problem-solving abilities.

First and foremost, parrotlets and macaws are known for their exceptional behavior and social skills. They are highly interactive animals that thrive on human interaction and stimulation. Their ability to adapt to different environments and learn from their surroundings plays a significant role in their perceived smartness. For instance, they can quickly learn how to mimic human speech or perform tricks, which may give the impression of intelligence to observers.

Communication skills also contribute to their perceived smartness. Parrotlets and macaws have the ability to communicate effectively with humans and other animals. They can imitate and learn different sounds, words, and even songs. This skill not only showcases their intelligence but also enhances their ability to interact and engage with their environment. Moreover, their ability to understand and respond to human cues, such as facial expressions and body language, adds another layer to their perceived smartness.

Problem-solving abilities further add to the perception of intelligence in parrotlets and macaws. These birds have a keen sense of curiosity and their playfulness often leads them to explore and find innovative solutions to various challenges. Whether it is figuring out how to open a cage door or manipulating objects to access food, their ability to problem-solve demonstrates a level of cognitive complexity that is often associated with intelligence.

It is important to note that intelligence in animals should not be solely measured by human standards. Animals have their unique ways of perceiving and interacting with the world, which may not align with our expectations of intelligence. For instance, parrotlets and macaws have remarkable memory capabilities, which enable them to remember specific rules and patterns. This ability may not be considered as "intelligent" in the traditional sense, but it showcases their adaptive nature and capacity to learn and retain information.

In conclusion, there are several factors other than intelligence that contribute to the perceived smartness of parrotlets and macaws. Their behavior, communication skills, problem-solving abilities, and adaptability all play a significant role in shaping this perception. It is essential to approach the evaluation of animal intelligence with an open mind, acknowledging their unique perspectives and capabilities.

Are Lovebirds and Parrotlets Related? Unveiling the Connection Between These Popular Pet Birds

Frequently asked questions.

The intelligence of a parrot or a macaw can vary greatly depending on the individual bird, so it is difficult to make a general statement about which species is smarter. Some parrotlets have been known to be quite intelligent and capable of learning tricks and imitating sounds, while some macaws are known for their problem-solving abilities and ability to learn complex tasks.

Yes, parrotlets can be trained to perform tricks. With proper training and positive reinforcement, parrotlets can learn to do a variety of tricks, such as waving, playing dead, and even talking or mimicking sounds. It is important to be patient and consistent with training to help the parrotlet understand what is expected of them.

Generally, macaws have a better ability to talk and mimic sounds than parrotlets. Macaws have a larger vocal range and stronger vocal cords, allowing them to produce a wider variety of sounds. However, individual parrotlets can still learn to talk and mimic sounds to some extent, although they may not have the same range as a macaw.

Macaws are known for being highly intelligent and good at problem-solving. They have been observed to work out complex puzzles and find creative solutions to challenges. While parrotlets may not possess the same level of problem-solving ability as macaws, they are still intelligent birds capable of learning and adapting to new situations. With proper mental stimulation and enrichment, parrotlets can also show problem-solving skills.

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