Abstract
The factors governing the evolution of intelligence are poorly understood. To resolve this issue I investigated the causes and consequences of individual variation in cognitive ability in Australian magpies. I found evidence for a general intelligence factor in Australian magpies, and identified a positive relationship between general intelligence and group size that emerged during development. In turn, there was a positive relationship between general intelligence and reproductive success. Together, these results demonstrate the potentially crucial role sociality plays in the development and evolution of intelligence.
Original language | English |
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Qualification | Doctor of Philosophy |
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Award date | 13 Jul 2017 |
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Publication status | Unpublished - 2017 |