What would happen if humans varnished?

Imagine for a moment the possibility of humans going extinct and ponder the animals that could potentially rise as the new dominant species. It's a fascinating thought, isn't it? Humans, with our high intelligence, fashion sense, culinary skills, and reliance on smartphones (despite occasional password forgetfulness), have built complex societies. But if we were to suddenly vanish, what kind of animals might evolve to possess similar skills? Could they even surpass us?

Scientists have explored this question using modern gene sequencing technology and our understanding of evolution. We know that the Earth's climate will continue to change, requiring species to adapt for survival.

Convergence, the phenomenon where unrelated organisms develop similar traits to thrive in a specific environment or fill a niche, will also play a significant role. For instance, fish have evolved streamlined bodies and fins perfectly suited for aquatic life. Surprisingly, dolphins, warm-blooded air-breathing mammals with a different evolutionary history, have independently evolved a similar body shape.

Perhaps some animals could develop hand-like appendages akin to our own, enabling them to fulfill similar roles as humans, such as constructing cities and modifying their environment. Primates like chimpanzees and bonobos are already close to having such dexterity with their opposable thumbs, which they utilize to create tools in the wild. It's also conceivable that birds, the surviving descendants of dinosaurs, could become the new intelligent species if humans were to vanish. Birds exhibit remarkable cognitive abilities and can form large social groups. Some species, like sociable weavers, even construct communal nesting sites. Although their structures may differ from human metropolises, they showcase advanced cooperative behavior.

Let's not overlook octopuses, considered the most intelligent non-human animals on Earth. They possess the ability to distinguish between real and virtual objects and can manipulate their environment. However, adapting to life on land could be challenging for them. There is still much we don't know about animal intelligence, and historically, humans have been somewhat arrogant in our understanding of it. In the past, there was a prevailing belief in a hierarchical organization of intelligence, with humans at the top and insects at the bottom. In the 1960s, a new generation of researchers challenged this idea, proposing that intelligence should be measured in relative terms rather than absolutes.

Advancements in technology have allowed us to observe animals for extended periods without disturbing them, unveiling greater intelligence than previously recognized. For instance, researchers in Melbourne employ remote-controlled drones to study the breeding patterns of Southern right whales. Artificial intelligence assists in tracking and predicting the movements of various creatures. Interestingly, humans tend to acknowledge animal intelligence when it resembles our own behavior. Dolphins, for example, exhibit the use of names and possess distinct accents, as demonstrated by dolphins in southern Brazil interacting with local fishers for over a century.

Intelligence is not exclusive to mammals or primates. Birds and insects display remarkable cognitive abilities as well. Parrots form complex social groups and can differentiate between individuals based on their relationships. Insects, despite their small brains, are capable of impressive cognitive feats like tool use and observational learning.

The traditional notion that intelligence is unique to humans and a few select primates has been debunked.

Intelligence is distributed differently throughout the animal kingdom, with each species excelling in certain areas based on environmental pressures and adaptations. While we commonly associate high intelligence with animals like chimpanzees, dogs, and dolphins, there are surprising additions to the list. Some of them may even be sitting on your lap right now. Take, for example, house cats. They possess the ability to learn through observation and repetition, earning them the label "copycats." Rats, often deemed pests, are actually assisting researchers in detecting lung disease by using their exceptional olfactory capabilities.

Pigs, like Nelly, exhibit problem-solving skills beyond mere tricks. Their spatial awareness and cognitive abilities are fascinating. Elephants, known for their cooperation and empathy, showcase remarkable social skills, communication, and even tool use.

These stories remind us that animal intelligence extends far beyond our previous understanding. So, if this exploration has piqued your curiosity, feel free to like and share this video with your friends. For more fascinating content, click on the suggested videos and stay on the bright side.