Summary
Studies tool use, memory and problem solving in species like crows, primates and cetaceans.
In depth
Examples: New Caledonian crows making hooked tools, chimpanzees using stones, elephants and magpies passing mirror tests, dogs understanding human gestures. Careful experiments avoid anthropomorphism.
Cognition includes memory, planning and social learning. Brain size relative to body is one indicator. Tool use appears in many lineages.
Key idea: intelligence has evolved independently in several groups.
Frequently asked questions
What is Animal Cognition?
Studies tool use, memory and problem solving in species like crows, primates and cetaceans.
Which area of biology covers Animal Cognition, and how advanced is it?
Animal Cognition is one of the 53 topics in Zoology & Animal Diversity. It is rated Advanced, so it suits learners who want specialist depth. Related topics in this area include Cephalopod Intelligence, Animal Migration, Animal Kingdom.
Can you give an example of Animal Cognition?
Alex the parrot learned over 100 words.
What should I learn before Animal Cognition?
Work through the Beginner topics in Zoology & Animal Diversity first, such as Animal Kingdom, Vertebrates and Invertebrates, Sponges, then return to Animal Cognition. Advanced topics assume the Intermediate vocabulary.
What topics are related to Animal Cognition?
The closest topics to Animal Cognition are Cephalopod Intelligence, Animal Migration, Animal Kingdom, Regeneration. Comparing them side by side is a good way to see how the ideas connect.
How can I check that I understand Animal Cognition?
Read the summary and the in-depth section, then use the quick check on the interactive lesson for Animal Cognition. To practise the whole of Zoology & Animal Diversity, use the Zoology & Animal Diversity quiz.
How is Animal Cognition different from Cephalopod Intelligence?
Animal Cognition: Studies tool use, memory and problem solving in species like crows, primates and cetaceans. Cephalopod Intelligence: Octopuses and squid have large, complex nervous systems and show learning and problem solving. Read both side by side and note what each one explains.
How should I study Animal Cognition step by step?
First, read the summary and write the definition in your own words. Second, read the in-depth section and note any example. Third, compare it with Cephalopod Intelligence and explain the difference aloud. Finally, take the Zoology & Animal Diversity quiz and come back to this page for any question you miss.