Surprising Intelligence of Crows: Nigeria’s Misunderstood Superbirds

Crows, often misunderstood and shrouded in superstition, are among the most intelligent creatures on the planet. Native to Nigeria and found in many parts of the world, these black-feathered birds have long been associated with ominous tales. Locally, many see them as evil messengers or tools used by diabolical individuals to manipulate people and events. But beyond this folklore lies a fascinating truth—crows are remarkable animals with cognitive abilities that rival some of the smartest species on earth.

In the scientific world, crows are ranked alongside great apes, dolphins, and even young children in terms of intelligence. Researchers have observed their ability to solve complex puzzles, use tools, and demonstrate both social and emotional intelligence.

Signs of Superior Intelligence

One of the most astonishing traits of crows is their ability to use and even create tools. The New Caledonian crow, for instance, can craft sticks into specific shapes to fish out insects from tight spaces—a skill once thought exclusive to humans and primates.

Crows are also master problem solvers. In lab settings, they have tackled multi-step puzzles that require reasoning, memory, and planning. Some have even solved tasks that involve cause and effect, showing a grasp of logical thinking.

Another striking feature is their memory—especially their facial recognition skills. Crows remember human faces, particularly those who have harmed or helped them. Not only do they remember, but they also communicate these experiences to other crows. If you wrong a crow, you might find an entire flock avoiding—or confronting—you.

Their social life is just as impressive. Crows live in complex communities and use a variety of vocal sounds to communicate. They’ve even been seen gathering silently around a dead fellow crow, a behavior researchers interpret as mourning.

Thinking Ahead and Learning

Planning for the future is another trait crows share with humans. They often store food and sometimes use deception to keep their stash safe from other birds. In one experiment, crows dropped stones into a half-filled container of water to raise the water level and bring floating food within reach—a real-life version of the classic story of the thirsty crow.

Global Geniuses in Feathers

Different species of crows exhibit these traits in various ways. The New Caledonian crow stands out for its tool-making, while the American crow excels in navigating city life. Carrion and hooded crows, common in Europe and Asia, are known for their advanced social intelligence.

A Final Thought

It may surprise many that crows can count up to five, understand analogies, and even imagine future scenarios—abilities once thought to be the exclusive domain of humans and higher primates. It’s time to look beyond superstitions and appreciate these black-feathered birds for what they truly are: intelligent, adaptable, and deserving of respect.

So, the next time you see a crow in Nigeria or anywhere else, remember—you might just be under observation by one of nature’s sharpest minds.

By Dayo Emmanuel