When it comes to intelligence, for centuries scientists have considered birds to be foolish, but one bird that has always amazed them is the crow.
In fact, anyone who has ever encountered a crow knows that this bird is quite intelligent, which is why it is often referred to as a “wise crow.” In recent years, science has discovered that crows have the ability to make things, store them, care for tools, and they enjoy playing.
Now, scientists have found that these birds are also highly vengeful and do not forget those who try to harm them for a long time.
A new study has shown that if a crow is provoked or threatened, it holds a grudge or animosity against the person for an extended period. The research also discovered that crows have a remarkable ability to remember faces.
Professor John Marzluff from the University of Washington in the USA began this research in 2006. At the start of the study, he wore a terrifying mask and captured seven crows using a net, then released them without causing any harm. He placed identification bands on the birds’ feet.
In the following years, Professor Marzluff and his assistants wore the same mask and walked around the university campus, feeding the crows and recording their reactions. On one occasion, Professor Marzluff encountered aggressive behavior from 47 out of 53 crows. He reported that the number of crows involved in the study had increased significantly compared to the initial group, suggesting that crows learn to identify humans who pose a threat to their parents and relatives.
After 2013, the number of aggressive crows decreased, and by September 2023, 17 years later, Professor Marzluff did not encounter any aggressive behavior from the birds.
During the study, experts also wore a different mask and fed the crows, but did not experience any aggressive behavior from them. Earlier, in May 2024, a study from the University of Tübingen in Germany revealed that crows can count from one to four. Yes, indeed, these birds can not only count but also recognize and respond to numbers displayed on a screen.
