Animal Intelligence & Emotions

Exploring the minds and feelings of animals.

Complex Problem Solvers: The Intelligence of New Caledonian Crows

Table of Contents Introduction: Beyond the Bird Brain Stereotype Tool Use: A Signature of New Caledonian Crow Intelligence Sticks, Hooks, and Spiky Leaves: The Material Palette Tool Manufacturing: More Than Just Finding a Suitable Object Problem Solving Without Direct Rewards: Building on Experience The Aesop’s Fable Experiment: Weighing Up the Options The String Pulling Task: […]

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Octopuses: Masterminds of Marine Architecture

Table of Contents Beyond the Tentacles: A Glimpse into the Minds of Cephalopod Construction The Importance of Shelter: More Than Just a Home The Architect’s Tool Kit: Eight Limbs and a Savvy Mind Building the Den: A Multi-Phase Project Beyond the Den: Other Forms of Octopus Architecture Notable Examples of Octopus Architecture The Intelligence Behind

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Animal Emotions Revealed: Do Cows Really Have Best Friends?

The image of a cow contentedly chewing its cud in a pasture often conjures feelings of peaceful simplicity. But beneath that seemingly placid exterior lies a complex inner world, one that scientists are increasingly beginning to unravel. We’ve long attributed emotions to our companion animals, our dogs and cats, feeling a pang of shared joy

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Ecopsychology of Animal Play: Do Wild Animals Practice Mindfulness?

Table of Contents Introduction: The Curious Case of Playing Wildlife Defining the Elusive: What Do We Mean by “Play” in Animals? The Evolutionary Benefits of Play: More Than Just Fun Ecopsychology: Bridging the Gap Between Humans and Nature Mindfulness in Humans: A State of Present Awareness The Question: Do Wild Animals “Practice” Mindfulness Through Play?

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Fur, Feathers, and Fiber Optics: Nature’s Inspiration for Modern Technology

The animal kingdom, a breathtaking tapestry of life, has long captivated our imaginations. Beyond their inherent beauty and ecological significance, animals are masters of innovation, honed over millions of years of evolution. It’s no wonder that their ingenious designs and biological processes serve as a rich source of inspiration for modern technology. From the incredibly

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The Cosmic Influence: How Animals Navigate Using Stellar Cues

Table of Contents An Introduction to Nature’s Navigators Avian Astronomers: Birds and the Boreal Compass Insect Navigators: The Dung Beetle’s Galaxy Quest Beyond Birds and Beetles: Other Potential Stellar Sailors The Mechanisms of Cosmic Compassry: A Deeper Dive The Challenges and Future of Stellar Navigation Research Conclusion: A Universe of Navigators An Introduction to Nature’s

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