Clever cockatoos in Sydney learn to drink from water fountains

In western Sydney, Australia, sulphur-crested cockatoos have demonstrated remarkable intelligence by learning to drink from public water fountains. This behavior was first noted by researchers in 2018, leading to a detailed study of the birds' interactions with these fountains. In the fall of 2019, 24 tagged cockatoos were observed during a two-month period, revealing various techniques the birds employed to operate the twist handle of the fountains. Approximately half the time, the birds succeeded in obtaining water, showcasing their adaptability to urban settings. The cockatoos displayed creative methods; they would either stand on the handle with both feet or balance on one foot while twisting the handle with their body weight. This innovation was further highlighted by the presence of chew marks on the fountains, indicating their frequent attempts to drink. However, the researchers are perplexed by why these birds prefer the fountains as a water source over natural options nearby. Initial hypotheses suggested that the fountains may provide a safe drinking environment or offer a more appealing taste compared to local streams. Researchers, including Lucy M. Aplin from the Australian National University, emphasized the significance of social learning and cooperation among these birds, suggesting that when one cockatoo learns a new behavior, it can be shared within the flock. This ability to adapt and utilize human-made resources emphasizes the cognitive capabilities of parrot species like the sulphur-crested cockatoos. The study not only chronicles their latest behaviors but also raises questions about other potential skills that have not yet been documented. The growing urban habitat creates unique challenges and opportunities for wildlife as these birds continue to learn and evolve in response to human environments. The quest to understand their fascination with drinking fountains opens further avenues for research into animal intelligence, adaptability, and the effects of urbanization on wildlife behaviors, specifically exploring what other practices might emerge as these creatures continue to thrive in such settings.