The ability of oriental magpies (Pica serica) to solve baited multiple-string problems.

摘要: Background Baited multiple-string problems are commonly used in avian laboratory studies to evaluate complex cognition. Several bird species possess the ability use a string pull for obtaining food. Methods We initially tested and trained 11 magpies determine whether oriental magpie (Pica sericia) possesses solve baited problems. Eight of birds obtained bait by pulling, were selected formal tasks second stage. Second stage tests divided into seven based on configurations. Results Only two able tasks: one solved task parallel strings, other slanted strings with farther from middle point between short long-short strings. When faced more difficult (i.e., closer crossing continuity discontinuity), observed chose instead adopt simpler strategies proximity principle, side bias trial-and-error learning. Our results indicate that had partial understanding principle but adopted strategies.