Emus and Rheas Demonstrate Problem-Solving Skills in New Study

Research on large flightless birds challenges the notion of their low intelligence, revealing basic technical innovation capabilities.

A study published in *Scientific Reports* tested the problem-solving abilities of palaeognath birds, including emus, rheas, and ostriches.
Emus and rheas successfully completed a novel rotary puzzle designed to test technical innovation, with emus solving it 90% of the time in the correct direction.
One male rhea displayed an additional innovative behavior by dismantling the puzzle apparatus to access food, showcasing an unexpected approach.
No ostriches in the study were able to solve the task, which researchers suggest could be due to cognitive differences or lack of interest.
The findings suggest that technical innovation may have evolved earlier in avian history and provide insights into the behavior of dinosaurs, as palaeognaths are their closest living relatives.