A True Bird Brain

We have learned that Alex, an African grey parrot who gained international fame for his exceptional communication skills, has died at the age of 31. Alex’s owner, comparative psychologist Irene Pepperberg, said that the parrot could identify more than 50 objects, recite more than 100 words, and hold conversations with people. This sure seems to shatter the myth that parrots are only capable of mindless vocal mimicry. Alex and his vast legacy should certainly change our perception of the term bird brain.