Intelligence can be challenging to define and measure across different species, there are a few bird species that are often considered highly intelligent:
1. African Grey Parrot (Psittacus erithacus): African Grey Parrots are renowned for their exceptional cognitive abilities. They are known for their advanced problem-solving skills, impressive vocal mimicry, and ability to understand and use human language to communicate. Some African Greys have even demonstrated the ability to count and perform basic mathematical tasks.
2. New Caledonian Crow (Corvus moneduloides): New Caledonian Crows are famous for their tool-making and tool-using abilities. They have been observed crafting specialized tools from twigs and leaves to extract food from crevices and solve complex puzzles. They also demonstrate problem-solving skills and have shown the ability to use tools for multiple tasks.
3. Kea (Nestor notabilis): Keas, a species of parrot native to New Zealand, are known for their curiosity, problem-solving skills, and social intelligence. They have been observed solving puzzles, manipulating objects, and even demonstrating a sense of humor. Keas also exhibit complex social behaviors and are capable of learning from and cooperating with one another.
4. Ravens and Crows: Members of the corvid family, including ravens and crows, are highly intelligent birds. They have excellent problem-solving abilities, memory skills, and are capable of using tools. They also display social complexity, engage in play behaviors, and demonstrate the ability to plan for the future.
It's important to note that intelligence can manifest in various ways, and different bird species may excel in different cognitive tasks. Additionally, intelligence can vary within a species, with individual variation in learning and problem-solving abilities. Thus, determining the "most intelligent" bird is subjective and can depend on the specific criteria used for assessment.