Wednesday 1 April 2009

baby chicks can do math?

Well, not exactly, but apparently they have a 'natural' affinity for larger groups of similar objects, and can use some combination of memory and simple calculation to consistently choose the larger group in a test. It's hard to explain, so read about it yourself.

The conclusion to the article talks about other animals' math skills in comparison:

It is already known that many non-human primates and monkeys can count, and even domestic dogs have been found to be capable of simple additions.

But this is the first time the ability has been seen in such young animals, and with no prior training.

What about dolphins, like Mr. Smarty Pants?

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