Explain why crows are so intelligent?

In short (click here for detailed version)

Ravens are considered intelligent due to their ability to solve complex problems, use tools, remember human faces, and plan long-term actions, among other exceptional cognitive skills.

Explain why crows are so intelligent?
In detail, for those interested!

They have relatively large brains compared to their size.

Crows have a particularly large brain in comparison to their general morphology. This brain-to-body size ratio is comparable to that of some primates like chimpanzees, which are known for their remarkable intelligence. A larger brain concretely offers more space for connections between neurons, allowing crows to perform complex tasks, learn quickly, and adapt easily to their environment. In short, it's as if these birds have a high-displacement engine under the hood, giving them impressive cognitive power.

Able to solve complex problems

Crows have repeatedly demonstrated their ability to handle tricky problems. For example, in certain experiments, they quickly grasp the concept of puzzles with multiple steps to solve one after the other in order to obtain food. As soon as they understand the principle, they keep the logic in mind and go straight to the point. They are creative, adapting known solutions to new situations, even when faced with completely unprecedented challenges. Sometimes, they also collaborate with each other to achieve a common goal, an additional sign of their remarkable intelligence.

Use tools to catch their food.

Crows are part of a small group of animals capable of using tools to eat. In the wild, some catch twigs or sticks to extract insects hidden in trunks or crevices. Others use finely cut leaves, which they shape themselves to catch ants or scrape in cracks for food. And it's not just coincidence: they carefully select their tools according to their needs and sometimes keep them for future use. This thoughtful use clearly demonstrates a remarkable adaptability and learning ability, comparable to that of the cleverest great apes.

Have an excellent memory

Crows are capable of precisely remembering a hiding spot where they have hidden their food, even several months after placing something there. Thanks to this impressive memory, they can easily locate hundreds of different caches. They also remember very well dangerous places or those where they have previously encountered problems, which helps them avoid potential traps. This excellent spatial memory also allows them to know when to return for food, based on urgency and ease of access. In short, their memory is a true interactive map, constantly updated based on their experiences.

Able to recognize and remember faces

Crows can easily identify specific human faces. If a person behaves unpleasantly or threateningly towards them, they remember for a long time. More surprisingly, they communicate this information to other crows, so that the whole group knows exactly whom to be wary of. They adjust their behavior based on the recognized individual: friendly or hostile depending on what they have learned about the person in question. This ability to recognize and remember faces helps them better adapt to their environment, spotting dangers and opportunities more effectively.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1

Can ravens really talk like parrots?

Sure! Here’s the translation: "Yes! Crows are capable of imitating certain sounds and even human speech, although their voice is often rougher and less clear than that of parrots. This ability enhances their capacity to communicate effectively with each other."

2

Why do we often see crows in groups?

Crows have a highly developed social lifestyle. They often live in groups to cooperate in foraging for food, defend against predators, or exchange various information. This socialization is, in fact, one of the important factors contributing to their intelligence.

3

Do crows recognize individual humans?

Absolutely! Several studies have shown that crows are exceptionally good at recognizing and remembering human faces. They can even pass this recognition on to their peers, making it easier for them to avoid potential threats.

4

What types of tools do crows use?

Crows primarily create and use sticks, twigs, or folded leaves to retrieve their food, for example by extracting insects from bark or crevices. This ability to design and use tools demonstrates their remarkable problem-solving skills.

5

Are crows vengeful?

Yes, in a way. Research shows that crows remember individuals who have exhibited hostile behavior towards them and avoid them or even show some aggression during subsequent encounters. This sophisticated ability demonstrates a high level of cognitive function and good long-term memory.

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