Many animals in the animal kingdom have truly displayed an incredible act of intelligence, ranging from their way of adaptation, communication, means of survival, and socialisation. Intelligence in the animal kingdom takes many forms, ranging from problem-solving abilities to communication skills.
Find the top 15 smartest animals in the world in our list of compilation below.
1. Dolphin
The brilliance of dolphins never stops to astonish. They are known for their playful nature and sociability, dolphins show a level of mental prowess that places them among the most intelligent species on Earth. Many researchers believe dolphins may be smarter than chimpanzees. One of the most striking demonstrations of dolphin intelligence is their use of echolocation, which requires not only advanced sensory perception but also complex processing capabilities.
2. Chimpanzees
Humans and chimpanzees share a surprising 98.8% of their DNA. They are our closest living relatives and considered by most scientists to be the second most intelligent species on Earth, behind humans. Research on chimpanzees has estimated their IQ between 20 and 25, around the average for a human toddler.
3. Orangutan
Orangutans demonstrate an impressive capacity for learning and memory, particularly evident in their ability to craft tools for foraging and shelter building. This skill is not merely instinctual but involves a level of reasoning and foresight, showcasing an understanding of cause and effect.
4. Elephants
Research has identified a common fact about elephants, and it is said that elephants don’t forget. And an elephant’s intelligence is indeed epitomized by their exceptional memory. They can recall intricate migration routes, remember the faces of other elephants, and even mourn their deceased companions. Their intricate social structures and the intricate bonds they form highlight their emotional depth and cognitive prowess.
5. Raven, Crow & Magpie
Ravens, crows and magpies are members of the corvid family. They are known for their problem-solving skills, even understanding cause-and-effect relationships. They have been observed crafting intricate tools from natural materials to obtain hard-to-reach food sources.
6. Gorillas
Gorillas have been observed using sticks to gauge water depth and leaves as umbrellas, showing an understanding of their environment and the ability to manipulate it. They are the largest of the great apes. In addition to their size and strength, they are also highly intelligent beings. Compared to chimpanzees, gorillas are calm, reserved and patient.
7. African Grey Parrot
Parrots have indeed been notable for being one of the smartest creatures on earth, followed by their incredible abilities and characteristics. African grey parrots demonstrate a level of intelligence that rivals that of great apes in some aspects.
Parrots could communicate using words, understand abstract concepts like ‘bigger’ and ‘smaller’, and even express desires and frustrations.
8. Dog, Wolf, Fox, and Coyote
Dogs have earned their reputation as “man’s best friend” not only due to their loyalty but also their intelligence. They possess an incredible ability to understand human gestures and expressions, making them exceptional communicators. Dogs can be trained to perform a wide range of tasks, from guiding the visually impaired to detecting medical conditions through scent.
9. Pigs
Studies have found they’re smarter than dogs and 3-year-old children. They can learn complex tasks, recognize symbols, and even play simple video games. Pigs also possess an impressive ability to understand human emotions, making them empathetic and socially aware animals.
10. Cats
Cats, revered for their enigmatic and independent nature, exhibit a type of intelligence that is markedly different from the more socially oriented intelligence of dogs. Felines possess a cunning and resourceful intellect, honed through their evolution as solitary hunters. Their problem-solving skills, evident in their ability to manipulate objects and navigate complex environments, speak to a sharp and practical intelligence.
Cats are also masters of learning through observation and have a well-developed sense of self-preservation.
BONUS:
- Rat
- Squirrel
- Octopus
- Cuttlefish
