Could there be a bespoke internet realm where animals, including household pets, engage with each other and humans? This intriguing possibility is raised by scientists in light of new research findings.
Conducted by the University of Glasgow, a recent study reveals that parrots may have a preference for interacting via live video calls rather than recorded videos. This insight is part of broader research, suggesting the creation of an animal-oriented online environment might be on the horizon.
The preference for live communication by parrots is attributed to their ability to discern live interactions from prerecorded footage, the researchers propose.
Dr Ilyena Hirskyj-Douglas from the University’s School of Computing Science believes that while the internet offers a lot of potential for inter-animal interaction, the technology employed must be designed to suit the unique needs, capabilities, and mental faculties of animals.
“Research like this is vital to establishing the groundwork for an internet that is centered around animals,” she elaborates.
According to Dr Hirskyj-Douglas, prior studies have indicated that access to video calling can be beneficial to parrots and might alleviate the adverse effects associated with domestic life.
“Parrots naturally reside in flocks and interact continuously. However, the domesticated birds are frequently kept in isolation, which can lead to distress and harmful behaviors such as pacing or feather plucking,” she explains.
The involved research team, which included members from Northeastern University in the US, aimed to delve into the digital social interactions of nine household parrots.
Using tablets set up by the owners, the parrots had online profiles complete with photos, enabling them to engage in video calls via Facebook Messenger.
The training process involved teaching the parrots to ring a bell to communicate their desire to use the screen and attending introductory “meet and greet” sessions to familiarize themselves with other birds.
During a six-month period, the parrots had access to a dozen video sessions — half were live interactions with their friends on Facebook, and the other half comprised pre-recorded videos of these contacts.
The findings showed a marked preference for real-time connections, with the parrots accruing 561 live-calling minutes in contrast to 142 minutes of video playback.
During the live phase, the parrots initiated 65 out of the possible 108 calls, but only attempted 40 during pre-recorded screenings, according to the researchers.
Dr Hirskyj-Douglas reflects on the study’s revelations: “This has provided us with valuable insights into the parrots’ reactions to the complex stimuli that digital tablets present.”
“Their interactions with another live parrot typically mirrored natural social behaviors they display in the wild, which was not evident during the pre-recorded sessions.”
FAQs about an Animal-Centered Internet
Q: What exactly is an animal-centered internet?
A: An animal-centered internet would be a digital environment designed specifically for animals to interact with one another and potentially with humans, facilitated by technology suited to their innate behaviors and cognitive abilities.
Q: How would animals use this type of internet?
A: Through specialized interfaces and training, animals like parrots could use devices to make video calls and engage in live interactions with other animals, mirroring their natural social behaviors.
Q: Could this concept benefit animals?
A: Yes, according to the research, animals such as parrots could experience reduced stress and avoid negative behaviors associated with isolation by having the opportunity to socialize in a digital space.
Conclusion
The concept of an animal-centered internet is still in its nascent stages, but the University of Glasgow’s study offers promising insights into how technology can be harnessed to improve the well-being of domesticated animals. By replicating natural social environments, it’s possible to mitigate some of the negative impacts of domestication. If this innovative approach continues to evolve, it could revolutionize the way we think about technology’s role in animal care and welfare.