Universtiy of Auckland research published last year suggested that New Caledonian crows that were observed, used analogical reasoning rather than associative learning to solve problems when presented with tools.
A new paper from the same researchers including Professor Russell Gray from the University of Auckland’s department of psychology, give additional proof to the theory that crows’ tools skills are based on the ability to reason analogically.
The research is set to be published in the British Royal Society’s Proceedings B journal.
A good overview of analogical thinking is available here.
Youtube videos on Russell’s crows:
Professor Gray: Insights from the ivory tower.
Caledonian tool use explained by Professor Gray.
Metatool use explained.
More information:
Professor Russell Gray
Ph: 09 373 7599 ext 88525
Email: rd.gray@auckland.ac.nz