It's a pretty undisputed fact that humans are the smartest animals on the planet… even if the choices we make with that intelligence are a bit more questionable. However, we're lucky to share the Earth with many creatures that are just as smart as they are beautiful. Many animals we see every day are way more intelligent than we give them credit for. In fact, we even view some of them as pests! You might be surprised to discover that many of the species you can find in your own backyard are capable of some seriously clever stuff.
Those of us who have pets know that the same animals that try to fight with their own tails are also smart enough to learn some pretty crazy tricks. In fact, this bright pup proved that she knows some great organizational skills when she showed off a super-cool trick for her mama! But dogs aren't the only pets that can be taught some cool tricks; this macaw proved that he's as smart as he is colorful when he performed some impressive stunts in front of the camera. And here I was feeling proud of finally teaching my dog to high-five!
Take a look at the world's smartest animals, and be prepared for a few surprises. I know a lot of people who are terrified of number 8, but as it turns out, these creatures are actually little furry geniuses! Looks really can be deceiving.
Make sure you SHARE these clever critters with everyone you know!
16. Bees
You won't find bees solving jigsaw puzzles, but these little creatures can still think big. They have an excellent memory, and they learn where the best flowers are from their elders. The design of their hives and honeycomb are specifically constructed to store their honey in the most efficient way possible.
15. Anoles
These lizards don't get enough credit for their surprisingly advanced intelligence. They've been shown to have excellent memories, and they display impressive problem-solving skills. These little guys have even displayed abilities to count!
14. Ants
Another small creature with a big brain, ants have an extraordinary ability to remember long-distance routes with ease. Perhaps even more impressive, though, is how they function in groups. Ants show concern for their family members and will assist a comrade should they require help. They also developed agriculture long before humans did.
13. Squirrels
Part of the reason these animals are so annoying is because they're so smart. Squirrels have been seen using deceptive techniques to store their food, almost as though they could anticipate the intentions of others. Squirrels in the western part of the United States have also been known to cover themselves in the scent of rattlesnakes to keep hungry predators away.
12. Horses
If you've ever experienced the frustration of a horse who knows how to open stalls or gate latches, you're not alone. Horses have been observed to be crafty puzzle-solvers. Their high trainability comes from their knack for learning both verbal and nonverbal cues. These animals are also very compassionate creatures and form close bonds with both their fellow equines and animals of other species.
11. Cephalopods
Squid, octopus, and cuttlefish might be some of the strangest-looking creatures on the planet, but they're also some of the smartest. These animals have been known to solve complex puzzles and mimic other animals in both appearance and movement to trick both predators and prey. They've also been observed using cunning techniques to snatch a meal.
10. Dogs
Part of the reason they're man's best friend is because they're so dang smart. Your average dog is capable of learning hundreds and hundreds of words (as anyone who has used the word "walk" or "car" within earshot knows all too well), and they can learn countless commands. It's just one reason why these pets are so often employed as service animals.
9. Elephants
The old saying that an elephant never forgets definitely has roots in reality. Elephants have amazing memories and can recognize both friends and enemies after decades apart. They've been seen using tools suck as sticks to acquire food or rid themselves of pesky insects, and they display extremely complex emotions, including empathy. They even actively mourn when one of their friends or family members passes away.
8. Rats
Yep, another animal many people classify as "vermin" actually has impressively high intelligence. These rodents have long memories and are known for being problem-solvers. They can adapt to new situations and environments with ease and actually make lovely pets.
7. Orcas
Another intelligent ocean-dweller, the orca is a complex mammal that can actually learn species-specific dialects. Scientists have also found that once a younger killer whale is taught a hunting technique or specific behavior from an elder porpoise, they will continue to teach their offspring the same thing, resulting in the lesson being passed on for generations. These animals work extremely well in groups and often work in teams to catch prey.
6. Cows
Cows are pretty placid animals, so it might be surprising to find out that they're actually very smart. These hoofed mammals are fairly competent problem-solvers, but the real shocker is found in how emotionally complex they are. Just like humans, cows often make friends (and frequently have best friends) and enemies. Also like us, they get anxiety and worry about the future.
5. Crows
Who says that "bird brain" is an insult? Crows are extremely bright creatures capable of solving complex puzzles. They use logic and can multitask even better than some primates, and they can create and use tools better than any animal excluding humans. These smart animals can even count!
4. Pigs
This little piggy went to market, this little piggy played video games. Pigs are the smartest domestic animals on the planet and can be taught to solve puzzles and even, yes, play simple video games by pushing a joystick with their snouts. They can also use mirrors to find their food.
3. Dolphins
The dolphin's brain is even more complex than a human brain. These porpoises are fast learners and quickly come up with new ways to fish and protect themselves from predators. Those that live near people have even developed ways to communicate with humans. Dolphins have excellent memories and display a range of emotions that seems to be just as wide as the one humans possess.
2. Parrots
Just about every type of parrot displays various signs of extremely high intelligence. They're able to solve multilevel puzzles, and they can learn problem-solving abilities by watching other parrots. Many kinds of parrots also have an ear for music and will dance to the rhythm of songs that they like. These birds also form emotional attachments and enjoy playing with toys that stimulate their minds.
1. Chimpanzees
Chimps share all but a teeny tiny amount of their DNA with humans, so it's no wonder they share so many human-like qualities… including some serious brain power. These primates are able to solve complex puzzles and are known for using tools to access hard-to-reach food. Like their gorilla relatives, they're capable of learning sign language and find unique ways to communicate with both other chimpanzees and humans.
Don't forget to SHARE these smart creatures with everyone you know!
