Discover the Ingenious Birds That Master Trash Can Openings and Sip From Water Fountains!

In Australia, sulphur-crested cockatoos are showing just how clever they can be. These white birds with their striking yellow tufts are not only loud, but also very smart. They’ve taken their problem-solving skills to another level. First, they learned to open trash cans, and now they’ve figured out how to use water fountains.

Researchers in western Sydney have been fascinated by this new trick. After spotting cockatoos drinking from public fountains in 2018, they tagged 24 of these birds and set up cameras near the fountains to observe them. For two months in late 2019, they recorded how the cockatoos interacted with the fountains, which are also known as bubblers.

Surprisingly, the birds were able to figure out the twist handle mechanism. Some would stand on the handle while others would place one foot on the handle and one on the spout. They would then lean their weight to turn the handle clockwise and take a drink.

Though they weren’t always successful, with a success rate of about 50%, it showed that cockatoos have likely been using this technique for a while. Researchers even found bite marks on several of the fountains, suggesting these clever birds frequently visit. The study was published in the journal Biology Letters.

These birds have surprised scientists before. In 2021, another study revealed their ability to lift heavy trash bin lids to find food. Such behaviors highlight their adaptability to urban settings and the role of social learning among animals. Lucy M. Aplin, a co-author of the recent study, noted that cockatoos are social creatures, allowing them to learn from one another. “If a clever bird invents a behavior, others can pick it up,” she explained.

There are still questions left unanswered. Why do cockatoos prefer drinking from fountains instead of natural water sources? Initially, researchers thought it might be a backup option for hot days when creeks dry up, but that theory didn’t hold up. Other possibilities suggest they might feel safer in public areas or simply prefer the taste of fountain water.

As the team continues their research, they’re excited to discover what else these intelligent creatures can do. Aplin even mentioned reports of cockatoos unzipping school backpacks to snatch lunches, a problem that has led schools to keep bags inside classrooms.

With further study, we may uncover even more amazing behaviors from these extraordinary birds.

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