Question 1
5 / 5 pts
Read the following text and answer the questions below:
The Most Intelligent Animals
What is the most intelligent animal? There is not just one, but many that show traits
that can make the most intelligent animals. There are certainly other animals that are
not included in this list, so you can always read more about them on websites or
encyclopedias.
Octopuses. By far the world’s smartest invertebrates, octopuses can carry out
complex tasks, such as opening a jar to get to its contents. Not only do they have a
good short- and long-term memory but also a remarkable ability to learn new skills
from the moment they are born.
Dolphins. Dolphins are extremely sociable creatures with a highly developed ability
to adapt to their habitat. “They help one another when injured or ill,” Dr. Kenneth
Norris, a dolphin researcher says. He adds, “Thanks to their individually
distinct calls, they can pass on their knowledge to others.” In fact, the list of
high-level cognitive abilities – including identification, differentiation, and behavioral
control – goes on and on.
Chimpanzees. These are mankind’s closest relatives. Chimpanzees are sociable
animals and form elaborate communities. They are skilled at using different types of
tools to carry out complex tasks, such as thin sticks to extract termites and rocks to
open fruits. Combined with a powerful memory, these abilities make the chimpanzee
the most intelligent (non-human) animal on Earth.
Pigs. Pigs are highly adaptable mammals with a keen ability to learn new skills. (1)
In fact, some studies suggest that an adult pig may have a level of intelligence
comparable to that of a three-year-old child! This would make them far smarter
than other domestic animals, such as dogs and cats.
