Parrots are among the most amazing animals in the animal kingdom, their remarkable ability to mimic human sounds with astonishing accuracy. But does their ability to recite words mean they understand their meaning?
Repeating is not understanding: the adaptive mechanism behind sound
Parrots do not have vocal cords like humans, yet they use a unique branch organ at the junction of the trachea and lungs. This organ shapes air in a variety of ways, similar to a human cell.
Can parrots learn meaning? Surprising scientific experiments
The most famous example is Alex, the African grey parrot trained by scientist Irene Pepperberg. Alex learned to distinguish colors, shapes, and even express concepts like "difference" or "nothingness." But did he truly understand language? The answer is complex: Alex learned to associate words with specific contexts (such as asking for an apple upon seeing it), but this is different from understanding grammar or using language abstractly, as humans do.
Why do we think they understand us? Emotional deception
Conditional association: When a parrot says "hello" when the door is opened, it associates the word with a visual event (a person entering), not with the meaning of a greeting.
Voice tone: Parrots may repeat words spoken in an emotional tone (such as anger or joy) to elicit a response from humans, without realizing the content.
Desire to communicate: Humans tend to interpret animal behavior through a human lens, reinforcing the illusion that the parrot "wants to talk."
: Ethical dimensions: beyond the dementia
The belief that parrots understand speech can lead to:
Ignoring their natural needs, such as flying for hours or interacting with other members of their species.
Commercial Exploitation: These birds are sold as "talking toys," without taking into account their complex captive needs.
Psychological Stress: Trying to force them to speak can cause stress, especially if they are isolated from other stimuli.
:How to deal with them consciously
Focus on their natural
Do not neglect the health aspect and proper nutrition. Always provide them with their favorite food.
So we have dedicated to you from the seventh bird:
Faicib Food for Curlews and Small and Medium Parrots with Fruits 700g
Positive reinforcement: Reward them for desired behaviors (such as flying around the room) instead of focusing solely on their speech.
lolo Pets Parrot Treats with Nuts and Fruits 250g
Birds and parrots rewards cuttlefish bones 6 pieces with small stabilizer from Prevo
Understand the limits of intelligence: Appreciate their social and emotional intelligence without exaggerating it.
So we have dedicated to you from the seventh bird:
Seven Bird Wooden Blocks Toy for Birds and Parrots
Stand toys for birds and parrots from Brevo
Chilled bird perch anti-biting wood parrot
In conclusion:
Parrots are intelligent and capable of learning, but their intelligence is radically different from that of humans. Their repetition of speech is a natural marvel worthy of admiration in and of itself. Perhaps the beauty of these birds lies in their reminder that communication doesn't necessarily require language... but rather attention and respect for what lies beyond our comprehension.