I had a good long cry on Sunday when I read in TIME magazine about the death of the famous parrot Alex who wowed researchers for so many years in their studies of learning and language. Alex was 31.
I know that some people don’t recognize animal intelligence, including that of dogs and parrots, and even apes of various kinds. But, I truly do. We don’t give them enough credit.
Researcher Irene Pepperberg worked with Alex over many years teaching him all kinds of things. According to one report I recently read, he even surprised her once by spelling “nut” when he got frustrated. She had been trying to teach him phonics and didn’t know he understood the concept until he asked, “Want a nut … nn … uh … tuh?”
Over the years Alex learned 100 words. He knew how to count and how to select items by color and shape and texture.
According to TIME his last words to her were, “You be good. See you
tomorrow. I love you.” which I’m sure is what Irene said to him each
night.
If you’d like to learn more about him, check out the Alex Foundation website.
I do not know Irene, but I can only imagine her grief. I’ve only been working with Lilly for just under 3 years, and I’d be crushed of my smart, smart girl was gone. It’s unthinkable to me of what I would feel after 31 years.
So, think a good thought for Alex and for Irene and her team. Surely, Alex will be missed.
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