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October 6, 2008 9:31:06 PM CDT

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No Bird Brains, Crows Reveal 'Human-Like' Reasoning

Posted Aug 17, 07 12:20 AM CDT in World,  US,  Science & Health 

(Newser) – Crows on a South Pacific island showed human-like reasoning in solving a complex problem that required two tools, according to a study. The birds used a short twig to access a longer twig which could then be used to reach a treat. "What's most amazing is that most of them did this on the first trial," a researcher told the BBC. 

Scientists believe the birds were using human-like analogical reasoning—which is based on experience with earlier, similar problems—rather than simply trial and error. The island crows are known for their tool-making abilities. They use their bills to whittle twigs into hooks to pry bugs from crevices.

Source BBC

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