In a new set of experiments published in Science, however, researchers have found that the raven’s ability to plan ahead goes much further than simply catching food.
The first experiment trained the birds to use a tool to open a box and retrieve a food reward. They were then shown just the puzzle for around one hour, before it was removed from their enclosure. They were next presented with a range of tools, including the correct tool for the previous puzzle, and made to wait 15 minutes before the puzzle was given back. The birds were successful at identifying the correct tool, in anticipation of the puzzle being returned, 86 percent of the time.
