Even with their tiny bird brains, rooks comprehend basic principles of physics at the same level as a 6-month-old baby, and beyond that of chimpanzees, a new study reports. But whether this understanding conveys any advantages remains an open question. Rooks and other members of the crow family can manipulate tools and solve laboratory puzzles like those of Aesop's fables. Some scientists believe that these feats suggest the birds have a sophisticated understanding of physical principles. (source: sciencenow.sciencemag.org)
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