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Related: About this forumAltruism in Birds? Magpies Have Outwitted Scientists by Helping Each Other Remove Tracking Devices
It was the first time a bird has removed a tracking device, and the second time a bird species showed cooperative rescue behavior.
Dominique Potvin
Feb 22, 2022
When we attached tiny, backpack-like tracking devices to five Australian magpies for a pilot study, we didnt expect to discover an entirely new social behaviour rarely seen in birds.
Our goal was to learn more about the movement and social dynamics of these highly intelligent birds, and to test these new, durable and reusable devices. Instead, the birds outsmarted us.
As our new research paper explains, the magpies began showing evidence of cooperative rescue behaviour to help each other remove the tracker.
While were familiar with magpies being intelligent and social creatures, this was the first instance we knew of that showed this type of seemingly altruistic behaviour: helping another member of the group without getting an immediate, tangible reward.
More:
https://www.the-scientist.com/news-opinion/altruism-in-birds-magpies-have-outwitted-scientists-by-helping-each-other-remove-tracking-devices-69723
DBoon
(22,354 posts)Lulu KC
(2,565 posts)(Until you get toward the end. Damn climate change.)
Thanks for sharing this!
Judi Lynn
(160,515 posts)Australias favourite bird has ruined a plan by well meaning yet gormless bird scientists to invade their privacy
Fri 25 Feb 2022 00.58 EST
Illustration at link:
https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2022/feb/25/magpies-courageous-heroes-or-little-feathery-bastards