Birds That Can Dance & Drum

Palm Cockatoos, Australia (credit: AAAS Science Advances, Andrew Wagner)

Originally, the only animals thought to use drums to attract attention were humans. Research published in Science Advances shows Palm Cockatoos use implements to produce regular beats and rhythms as well. With these birds, the reason is likely to attract a mate as they preform solo rather than in a group. Their rhythmic talents appear to be cultural, ie. learned and passed on, as has been seen in wild cockatoos on Australia's Cape York. Apparently, individual males benefited from drumming and passed on the ability to a wider population. Cockatoos are known to be smart birds and have demonstrated an appreciation for dancing to rock & roll music as well. Studies of animal behavior continue providing remarkable results from critters once thought dumb. Music appreciation is considered a sign for a high level of intelligence. WHB

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