‘Incredibly smart’ crow creates makeshift perch to drink from a cup of water on a hot day
In a delightful display of avian ingenuity, a crow named Auggie has captured the internet's heart by fashioning a makeshift perch to drink from a cup of water during a heatwave in Virginia. Chelsea, the bird's human observer, shared the incident on Instagram, marveling at how Auggie used a stick to balance himself while drinking water from a dish too precarious for his full weight. This account not only highlights the crow's problem-solving abilities but also underscores the broader intelligence of crows, which have been likened to early human tool-users.
Auggie's story is a testament to the cognitive prowess of crows, which have long fascinated scientists for their ability to use and even create tools. This behavior parallels the findings of studies that compare crow intelligence to that of young children, demonstrating their capacity for complex problem-solving. Chelsea's interactions with Auggie, who returns each nesting season, also emphasize the potential for meaningful cross-species relationships, driven by mutual curiosity and a shared environment.
Constructive analysis
The constructive-journalism lens: not just what happened, but what works.
- The problem
- Crows, like many wildlife species, face challenges in urban environments, particularly during extreme weather conditions where natural resources may be scarce.
- The actions
- Chelsea provides water for Auggie and observes his behavior, sharing insights into crow intelligence and adaptability.
- Evidence of progress
- The viral videos and widespread interest in Auggie's tool use provide tangible evidence of the crow's problem-solving skills, resonating with scientific studies on avian cognition.
- What we can learn
- Others can encourage biodiversity in urban areas by providing resources like water and observing local wildlife, fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation for animal intelligence.
PERMA wellbeing profile of this story
Seligman's five pillars of wellbeing, as expressed in this story.
- Positive Emotion
- 8
- Engagement
- 9
- Relationships
- 7
- Meaning
- 6
- Accomplishment
- 8
Character strengths in play
Top VIA strengths this story embodies.
Curiosity
Chelsea's fascination with Auggie's behavior and her dedication to documenting his actions reflect a deep curiosity about the natural world.
Perspective
Chelsea's ability to appreciate Auggie's ingenuity as a reflection of broader crow intelligence shows a keen perspective on animal behavior.
Kindness
Chelsea's efforts to provide water for Auggie during a heatwave demonstrate kindness and a commitment to caring for local wildlife.
Try this today
Next time you're outside, take a moment to observe the birds around you. Notice their interactions and behaviors, and reflect on what these might reveal about their intelligence and adaptability. Consider setting up a small bird-friendly area with water or food to see what visitors you might attract.