Recently, a very cool paper was released showing that scientists have observed tool-making in wild Goffin cockatoos. Not just one tool either, but three different tools, and each are made multiple times to specific shapes for the purpose of getting at the seed at the center of a hard mango pit. Even more interesting is that the species’ food supply isn’t dependent on the nut they are cracking- this group of birds just really like it. This behavior may have been going on right in front of us for quite a long time, we just haven’t previously observed it or expected it. With this discovery, the cockatoo is the fourth animal species to be observed creating a set of tools, after humans, chimpanzees, and monkeys. Quite the feat for our feathered friend!
When we are trying to problem-solve, we should see if what we are looking at is a nut someone already knows how to crack. Be it donor outreach, event logistics, or our favorite- live auction preparation- there are people out there with the tools to help you and your organization crack that nut! When you contract with a professional, you get professional results. These birds learned to use the specialized tools in their community… perhaps taking a cue from these bird brains isn’t such a bad idea.
From Good News Network
