Jackdaws Prioritize Food over Friendship, but Remain Loyal to Family

A study of jackdaw colonies in Cornwall has revealed that these highly gregarious birds readily switch friends to gain food rewards but stick with family members, including offspring, siblings, and mating partners, even if it means going hungry. The research involved presenting the birds with a task where access to mealworms depended on specific individuals visiting together. While the jackdaws quickly adjusted their social associations to maximize rewards, they maintained their close relationships with family members. The study sheds light on how animals manage social relationships and suggests that the ability to track and remember information about social partners can bring benefits.