Ravens rival apes

Humans are capable of planning for the future, though some might think it is a talent rarely used. But humans aren’t the only creature on earth that can do this: Ravens can, too.

The large, black-feathered bird with the big beak has long been known for its intelligence. A recent study, published in the July 2017 issues of the journal Science, shows the bird is not only intelligent, but wise.

The study, by Lund University in Sweden, trained ravens to get a tasty reward (a bit of dog food) by using a tool to open a box. Later, the box was removed and the ravens were offered a choice of three possibilities: a treat (but a less desirable one); a variety of interesting items; the tool to open the box.

In 86 percent of the cases, the ravens chose the tool and, when the box was returned to them 15 minutes later, they used it to open the box. The ravens were also taught to barter for treats using a blue cap as currency.

Interestingly, great apes have also demonstrated the ability to barter and plan for the future.

The researchers said the study begins to show that these talents are not uniquely human as was once thought.