Most Intelligent Animals

Dr. Jane Goodall

An animal behaviorist known the world over for her research on chimpanzee behavior is Dr. Jane Goodall. She's spent a lifetime studying animals and is one of the foremost authorities in conservation and environmental issues. Jane will be 75 on April 3, and still actively pursues her passion. She'll be in St. Louis to lecture at Washington University this month, but alas, I have no ticket to attend!

Last year Jane did an article for USA Today where she chooses what she believes to be the five most intelligent animals in the world. Her list includes the following:

1. Great Apes
2. Whales and dolphins
3. Elephants
4. Parrots
5. Dogs and cats

Her explanation and a couple of short videos are truly must-sees. Check out the post on village of joy.

I especially love the parrot video. Is he smart or what?

Hope for Parrots

Photo from Parrot Hope's website.


Most of us think of dog, cat, or bunnies when we talk about rescue organizations. Trust me when I say that there isn't a species out there that isn't in need of these services. Take parrots for example. They can live to be 80, are expensive to maintain properly, and many people get them with no real idea of what their care entails. This can result in abuse, neglect, or abandonment.

So today I'd like to feature a group that does parrot rescue. Based in Ohio, Parrot Hope steps in to help these beautiful and intelligent birds. They rehabilitate ill and injured parrots, and work on training to increase the bird's chances to be placed in a new home. Check out their website for more information on the services they provide.

Kudos to Parrot Hope for providing assistance to our feathered friends.