Bird Brained?: Lesson Overview
This video-enhanced lesson uses segments from the NATURE program "Ravens" to explore what scientists can determine about animal intelligence. (Grades 9-12)

This video-enhanced lesson uses segments from the NATURE program "Ravens" to explore what scientists can determine about animal intelligence. (Grades 9-12)
In this video-enhanced lesson, students will explore the concepts of adaptation and evolution as seen in different species of birds. (Grades 9-12)
Segments from NATURE's "Ravens" demonstrate indicators of animal intelligence, including communication, counting, memory, and basic problem solving.
The segments from the NATURE episode "Extraordinary Birds" show examples of the adaptations of different birds to their varying environments.
Explore the natural beauty of Ireland's places and wildlife in this photo essay.
Long recognized as one of the most intelligent birds, the raven also has a less than savory image as a scavenger that does not discriminate between humans and animals.
Some scientists consider corvids' intelligence to be on par with canids like wolves and dogs, and have conducted investigations into the raven's brainpower.
Like other vultures, the Cape Griffon does not kill its prey, but rather feeds preferentially on the soft tissue and bone fragments of dead animals -- usually nothing smaller than an antelope -- that they find solely by sight.
In this activity students will create an aircraft that will compete to fly the best. Students will also create a fictional writing piece that tells a legend or myth of a raptor.
Raptors possess keen senses and maneuvering skills that have been envied by humans throughout time. The traits of raptors have long been studied for the development of aircraft.
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