Tuesday, November 29, 2011

Ravens Found to Use Hand Gestures!


Scientists studying ravens in the wild have found that they use their beaks and wings much like humans use their hands to make gestures. This is the first time such behavior has been noted in the wild other than in primates. I wonder if they give each other "the bird"?

"...The researchers saw the ravens use their beaks much like hands to show and offer items such as moss, stones and twigs. These gestures were mostly aimed at members of the opposite sex and often led those gestured at to look at the objects. The ravens then interacted with each other — for example, by touching or clasping their bills together, or by manipulating the item together. As such, these gestures might be used to gauge the interest of a potential partner or strengthen an already existing bond...."

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