Animals

January 27, 2021

Zebra Finches Become a “Flock of Songwriters” in a Room Full of Electric Guitars

When you think of bird songs you probably imagine sweet-sounding tweets, cheeps, and chirps. Our feathered friends can create beautiful sounds when they sing, but what if they got their claws on some instruments? Inspired by this idea, French artist Céleste Boursier-Mougenot created a space that allows birds to interact with 14 amplified guitars.

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January 14, 2021

Parrot With Damaged Beak Gets Second Chance at Life With New Prosthetic Beak

A beak is as important to a bird as hands are to a human. So when a bird’s beak is damaged, it can put its life at risk because it interferes with their ability to eat, manipulate objects, climb, and protect themselves. That’s why it's a reason to celebrate when a parrot whose beak was broken got a second chance at a healthy and happy life with a recent reconstruction. The Brazil-based non-governmental organization (NGO)

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December 29, 2020

This African Gray Parrot Is the First Animal To Ever Ask an Existential Question

Have you ever heard of Alex the African gray parrot? This revolutionary bird was the colleague and test subject of Dr. Irene Pepperberg for 30 years during her research into animal psychology—particularly that of birds. Before she began her studies with Alex, birds weren’t considered to be intelligent animals (on account of their walnut-sized brains). In fact, the term “bird brain” was often used as an insult for stupidity. However, Dr.

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My Modern Met

Celebrating creativity and promoting a positive culture by spotlighting the best sides of humanity—from the lighthearted and fun to the thought-provoking and enlightening.