A group of researchers has exhibited the fascination that parrots, known for their intelligence, can have for mobile applications. Their research delved into how tablet games could offer insight into the intelligence, preferences, and behaviors of different species of parrots, while also paving the way for the development of animal-friendly technologies.
Titled ‘No More Angry Birds’, the study conducted by experts at Northeastern University in the USA focused on the touch-based interactions between parrots and tablets, highlighting the unique behavior and capability of the birds to engage with modern technology.
Equipped with advanced cognitive abilities, parrots are able to use their tongues to operate touchscreens. The study involved around 20 birds, documenting their tactile interactions with the devices and rewarding them with treats when they successfully completed tasks. The objective of the game was for them to touch colored discs on the screen, and a majority of the birds displayed a high level of engagement with the activity.
While parrots may not be as fast or precise as humans, it was observed that they did not randomly tap with their tongues, indicating genuine participation in the game. Many of them repeatedly tapped the same target quickly, and some even tapped a target before swiftly moving on to the next one, suggesting a clear understanding of the task at hand.
Overall, the study demonstrates that touchscreen games offer a form of entertainment for pet parrots that was previously not well-known. In the future, the development of software specifically tailored for these birds could potentially enhance their daily enrichment. – AFP Relaxnews
