Bird Brain (2011)

It’s used as an insult – “bird brain” – not very clever. But in the last few years research has shown that this idea is out of date. This film follows scientists discovering that bird intelligence is so advanced that birds can be compared to the great apes. Some of the most sophisticated research has involved birds from the crow family, including ravens and New Caledonian crows, and new research on parrots reveals that there are plenty of other smart birds out there. It’s not just the bird brain “superstars” that deserve a re-think. From garden birds, such as starlings, to waterfowl, such as geese, we’re only just beginning to uncover the surprises to be found in the minds of birds.