Emus climb the intelligence pecking order but ostriches are birdbrains – The Times
Emus are fighting back against their reputation as the “world’s dumbest bird” by impressing scientists with their problem-solving skills for the first time. Ostriches, however, have failed to shake off the dunce cap.When it comes to intelligence among birds, crows and parrots have long been the teacher’s pets. They are known for their ability to solve complex problems, even using tools to gain access to food and water.Large flightless birds from the palaeognath class, which includes emus, rheas and ostriches and are seen as the closest living relatives to dinosaurs, have long been regarded as dim-witted by comparison.Dr Fay Clark, of the University of Bristol’s School of Psychological Science, said: “A large body of research shows that crows and parrots are effective© Times Media Limited 2025.Registered in England No. 894646. Registered office: 1 London Bridge Street, SE1 9GF.
