Wait, so Birds are on video calls with each other?
In a study conducted in 2022, researchers explored the world of video-calling among Birds, focusing on 15 companion Parrots who connected with each other through video calls with the help of their caretakers. The goal of the research was to find a way to enhance their lives and improve their socialization while in captivity. The results were nothing short of amazing, providing valuable insights into how technology can benefit our highly social avian buddies.
THE NEED FOR A FLOCK
Across the globe, there are millions of Birds of all shapes and sizes being kept as beloved companions. And while these colorful creatures bring joy to their human guardians, they often lack appropriate stimuli to meet their high cognitive and emotional needs. Unfortunately, humans can’t always dedicate the time needed to provide them with the critical socialization they require.
That’s where the concept of video-calling between Birds comes into play.
THE PLAN
The team of researchers had a simple question: Once taught, will Birds want to initiate calls with each other, and if so, how will this be done? The steps were as follows.
STEP 1
Teach Parrots to ring a bell, signaling their desire to start a video call.
STEP 2
Teach them how to select the Bird they wish to connect with by tapping on a phone or on a screen.
This remarkable training program empowered Birds to take charge of their social interactions, which gave them more freedom to choose.
THE BENEFITS
Through a brutal trial and error, the researchers at last made a breakthrough! They discovered that the more calls a Parrot made, the more calls it received in return from other Birds.
This cycle created a vibrant virtual community even for Parrots, breaking down barriers and fostering social bonds beyond the limits of physical distance. Their desire and motivation to essentially talk to other Birds was seen through their excitement.
(Screenshot from video of Rébecca Kleinberger, Jennifer Cunha and Ilyena Hirskyj-Douglas)
TRANSFORMATIVE EXPERIENCES
As we know, Parrots like to copy, and one of the many benefits they received from this experiment is that the participants learned new skills and behaviors similar to how they learn in the wild from their peers. This expanded their horizons while simultaneously stimulating their complex minds.
ONE LESS LONELY BIRD
Video calling has been a game changer for everyone when it comes to socialization! Now, solo Parrots have the ability to have their socialization needs met, enabling them to connect with their own kind from the comfort and safety of their homes.
By engaging in video calls, these Birds get to experience social interactions, form friendships, and share knowledge, enriching their lives and overall well-being.
MANY POSSIBILITIES
We look forward to what this discovery means for Birds in the age of technology. And with technology as an ally, the colorful world of companion Parrots can further thrive, learn, and grow together, creating a harmonious blend of avian connections and technological advancements.
IS YOUR COMPANION BIRD LONELY?
Want to check whether your Bird is feeling lonely? Here’s a quick list of signs to look out for.
TOO MUCH NOISE
If your companion Bird is constantly noisy and trying to call out to other Birds, they might be looking for a companion.
TOO MUCH QUIET
If a Bird is acting strange, lethargic, too quiet, or is disinterested in his surroundings, you can imagine his mind is somewhere else.
DECREASED APPETITE
A lonely Bird might not be interested in eating because they tend to enjoy eating together with their flock.
OVERATTACHMENT TO THEIR HUMAN
Birds who are deprived of social interactions may become extra clingy — sometimes, not in a great way. They can excessively try to call out to their human or demand to stick with them no matter what.
FEATHER PLUCKING OR SELF-INFLICTED PAIN
Loneliness and boredom can usually lead to harmful behaviors like feather plucking, excessive preening, or self-mutilation.
Birds are highly intelligent and social, so it’s important to constantly have activities and toys to keep them stimulated.
