NATURE . WILDLIFE

BIRD BRAIN

52' (ENG, GER, FRE, SPA)

It’s used as an insult – ‘bird brain’ – not very bright. But new research suggests that this may no longer apply.

This film shows how bird intelligence can even be compared to that of apes. Magpies, for example, have joined the elite of animals that have passed the mirror test for self-awareness. The crow family has also joined another exclusive club – that of tool users – previously thought to be confined to the great apes. And New Caledonian crows not only use tools but also make tools for specific jobs.

With a combination of wild observations and specially designed tests, this film guides us through the latest research on bird intelligence - a journey, which will redefine the meaning of ‘bird-brained’.