Big Brains and Befitting Behaviour: A Review on Cognition in Three Avian Families

Abstract

Comparative psychology has revealed advanced cognitive abilities in primates, corvids (Corvidae) and parrots (Psittacidae). However, research on many bird families is sparse, even though brain sizes are relatively large in Old and New World vultures (Accipitridae and Cathartidae), falcons (Falconidae) and hornbills (Bucerotidae). Therefore, in this review, it was investigated whether these three families also possess advanced cognitive abilities similar to primates, corvids and parrots to gain a broader understanding of the distribution and evolution of avian cognition. Overall, hornbills have gained most attention and generally show positive results on ecology-related cognitive abilities. Falcons follow second with results on both ecological and social cognitive domains. Lastly, vultures show problem-solving abilities, tool use, social learning and an extensive vocal repertoire. While cognitive domains and evolutionary drivers remain understudied in these families, they do possess multiple cognitive abilities also found in corvids and parrots.