Bird brains, 1954

Robert Cushman Murphy, AMNH ornithologist, is a guest on this program. The topic under discussion is the intelligence of birds and their relative lack of intelligence in relation to other creatures. Demonstrations in the studio include live specimens and models, with a presentation of performing African lovebirds. Murphy argues that, despite claims that species such as talking parrots, parakeets, and mynas are intelligent, most birds rank low in intelligence, usually just above reptiles. Birds, however, are physically more efficient than other animals. A film made in Spain demonstrates how falcons may be caught and trained. A Hungarian film of marsh wildlife, which was shown in a previous broadcast (May 2, 1954), illustrates that instinctive behavior (e.g. nest building, fishing) enables birds to get along without much intelligence. Excerpts from Konrad Lorenz's imprinting film are also shown.