Ologies with Alie Ward Corvid Thanatology (CROW FUNERALS) Encore with Kaeli Swift
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Oct 5, 2021 
In this captivating discussion, Dr. Kaeli Swift, a wildlife researcher and corvid specialist, reveals the astonishing funeral behaviors of crows as they gather to mourn their fallen companions. She shares her insights on the complex social structures and cognitive abilities of these intelligent birds. Listeners will be fascinated by the emotional depth of crows, their mourning rituals, and the unexpected connections between humans and these avian creatures. Swift’s passion for her work shines through, inspiring a greater appreciation for the natural world.
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Mask Research
- Dr. John Marzluff, Kaeli Swift's advisor, is known for his research involving wearing masks around crows.
- This research demonstrated crows' ability to recognize and remember human faces, scolding those who pose a threat.
Crow vs. Raven
- Crows and ravens, while similar, differ in size, tail shape, and throat feathers.
- Ravens are significantly larger with wedge-shaped tails and textured throat feathers called hackles.
Brain Scans
- Kaeli Swift's research involved using FDG PET scans to study crow brain activity.
- Crows were shown stimuli, including dead crows, and the scans revealed which brain regions were most active.
