Convergent evolution of complex cognition: Insights from the field of avian cognition into the study of self-awareness

Pioneering research on avian behaviour and cognitive neuroscience have highlighted that avian species, mainly corvids and parrots, have a cognitive tool kit comparable with apes and other large-brained mammals, despite conspicuous differences in their neuroarchitecture. This cognitive tool kit is driven by convergent evolution, and consists of complex processes such as casual reasoning, behavioural flexibility, imagination, and prospection. Here, we review experimental studies in corvids and parrots that tested complex cognitive processes within this tool kit. We then provide experimental examples for the potential involvement of metacognitive skills in the expression of the cognitive tool kit. We further expand the discussion of cognitive and metacognitive abilities in avian species, suggesting that an integrated assessment of these processes, together with revised and multiple tasks of mirror self-recognition, might shed light on one of the most highly debated topics in the literature-self-awareness in animals. Comparing the use of multiple assessments of self-awareness within species and across taxa will provide a more informative, richer picture of the level of consciousness in different organisms.

Automated summary

Research on avian behavior and cognitive neuroscience has shown that birds, especially corvids and parrots, exhibit cognitive abilities comparable to those of apes and other large-brained mammals, driven by convergent evolution. Experimental studies have tested complex cognitive processes in these birds and suggest the potential involvement of metacognitive skills. Further exploration of cognitive and metacognitive abilities in avian species could shed light on the highly debated topic of self-awareness in animals.