20 Examples of Animals Using Tools in the Wild

Using tools in the animal kingdom is far more widespread than most people realize, and new examples continue to appear as researchers explore remote habitats. Animals use tools for feeding, protection, communication, and even problem solving in social situations. Each discovery expands understanding of cognitive abilities beyond what was previously assumed. Many examples prove that tool use develops through both instinct and learned behavior. Field studies reveal how young animals imitate experienced individuals. The growing body of research deepens knowledge about the evolution of intelligence. These observations demonstrate that nature contains many levels of creativity. Tool using behaviors give new insight into how animals adapt for survival in complex environments.

1. 1. Chimpanzees Using Sticks for Termite Fishing

Chimpanzees often use sticks to extract termites from underground nests. They carefully choose twigs that are the right length and flexibility. Some individuals modify the sticks by chewing the tips to create brushes that collect more insects. Young chimpanzees learn this skill by watching adults. The behavior requires planning because they must carry the tool to the feeding site. Researchers observe that chimps sometimes compete for access to good sticks. The technique shows problem-solving abilities and social learning. Termite fishing provides protein and essential nutrients. Studies show that different groups use unique methods, which suggests cultural variation. This example highlights how tool use helps chimps succeed in diverse habitats.

2. 2. New Caledonian Crows Shaping Hooks

New Caledonian crows are known for crafting hooks from twigs and leaves. They bend or sharpen plant materials to reach insects hidden in crevices. Their ability to shape tools reflects high cognitive flexibility. Researchers note that some crows store their tools for later use. This behavior shows foresight and planning. Young crows practice until they master tool creation. The birds recognize which materials work best in different conditions. They often refine tools to increase efficiency. Observations reveal cooperation among individuals who sometimes share foraging spots. These crows are considered among the most skilled tool users in the animal world.

3. 3. Dolphins Using Marine Sponges for Foraging

Bottlenose dolphins in certain regions use marine sponges to protect their snouts as they dig for food on the ocean floor. They pick up sponges and secure them over their noses while hunting. This prevents injury from rocks and sharp debris. The technique is passed down mainly from mothers to offspring. Researchers consider it an example of cultural transmission. Dolphins that use sponges tend to forage in deeper and rougher habitats. The method increases access to hidden prey. It also reduces competition with other dolphins. Field studies show that sponging dolphins have specialized diets. The behavior demonstrates problem-solving in a marine environment.

4. 4. Sea Otters Using Rocks to Break Shells

Sea otters frequently use rocks as anvils to crack open clams and other shellfish. They float on their backs and balance a stone on their chest. The otter then pounds the shellfish against the rock until it opens. This technique requires coordination and strength. Each otter often has a preferred stone. Some individuals store their rocks under loose skin folds. The behavior helps them access nutrient-rich food sources. It also increases feeding efficiency in cold waters. Researchers observe variations in technique based on experience. The stone cracking method is one of the most iconic examples of tool use in the wild.

5. 5. Goffin’s Cockatoos Crafting and Using Tools

Goffin’s cockatoos have shown unique abilities to create tools from cardboard, sticks, and wood. They break materials into specific shapes to retrieve food. Many individuals show remarkable precision in tool creation. The behavior is mostly studied in wild-inspired settings but originates from natural problem-solving tendencies. Some cockatoos adjust tool length depending on the distance to food. Observers note that they test the tools before using them. The birds also show persistence during challenging tasks. Their creativity helps scientists understand avian intelligence. Many behaviors appear spontaneous, which shows flexible cognition. This species demonstrates that tool use is not limited to primates.

6. 6. Elephants Using Branches as Fly Whisks

Elephants often break branches and use them to swat flies from their bodies. They select branches that are long enough for effective reach. Mothers sometimes demonstrate the technique to calves. Elephants also modify branches by removing leaves to make smoother surfaces. The behavior shows awareness of comfort and hygiene. Researchers see this as evidence of self-directed tool use. Elephants use tools in other situations as well, such as digging for water. Their actions reveal impressive memory and coordination. Many individuals develop personal preferences for certain types of branches. Tool use highlights their well-known intelligence.

7. 7. Woodpecker Finches Using Cactus Spines

Woodpecker finches from the Galapagos Islands use cactus spines or twigs to pry insects out of tree bark. They carry the tools from tree to tree. The finches sometimes adjust the tools by trimming them. This technique helps them access prey that would otherwise remain hidden. Researchers note that the behavior varies among islands. Young finches learn by observing experienced individuals. Tool-assisted feeding increases energy intake. The species adapts quickly during food shortages. Their actions demonstrate how tool use can evolve under environmental pressure. The finch is one of the most studied avian tool users.

8. 8. Octopuses Carrying Coconut Shells for Shelter

Some octopuses collect empty coconut shells and use them as portable shelters. They carry the shells across the ocean floor. When threatened, the octopus assembles the shells and hides inside. This behavior requires planning and foresight. The shells offer protection from predators. Researchers were surprised by the complexity of this tool use. Octopuses sometimes combine multiple pieces to create more secure shelters. The behavior highlights their remarkable problem-solving abilities. It also reveals adaptability to human-altered environments. Many scientists believe this example demonstrates advanced cognition in invertebrates.

9. 9. Egyptian Vultures Using Stones to Break Eggs

Egyptian vultures use stones to break open large and tough ostrich eggs. They select stones that are heavy enough to crack the shells. The birds throw the stones with surprising accuracy. Researchers believe this behavior is learned rather than instinctive. Younger birds often practice before becoming skilled. The technique allows access to valuable nutrients. It also reduces competition because few animals can open such eggs. Vultures show patience and persistence while cracking shells. This example demonstrates the importance of learned tool use in birds. It also shows how resourcefulness benefits scavengers.

10. 10. Capuchin Monkeys Using Stones as Hammers

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Capuchin monkeys frequently use stones to crack open nuts. They place the nuts on flat surfaces and strike them repeatedly until they break. The monkeys sometimes carry tools long distances to reach suitable cracking sites. This technique requires both strength and precision. Young capuchins observe adults before they can master the skill themselves. Different groups develop unique nut-cracking traditions passed down over generations. Researchers consider these behaviors a form of animal culture. Using tools allows capuchins to access food that many other animals cannot open. The activity also demonstrates advanced coordination and problem-solving. These actions make capuchins one of the most prominent primate tool users.

11. 11. Green Herons Using Bait to Catch Fish

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Green herons drop insects, bread crumbs, or feathers into the water to lure fish. When the fish approach the bait, the heron strikes to catch them. This technique demonstrates strategic planning and foresight. Herons adjust their bait placement depending on water movement and fish behavior. Some individuals experiment with different objects to improve success. This makes them one of the few bird species known to use bait as a tool. Using bait significantly increases their hunting success. Field studies indicate that herons learn this behavior through trial and error. Their creative hunting method surprises many bird watchers. Overall, this strategy highlights remarkable innovation among avian predators.

12. 12. Ants Using Sand to Transport Liquid Food

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Some ant species use grains of sand to soak up liquid food. They then carry the soaked sand back to their colony. This behavior allows them to transport food that would otherwise be impossible to move. The technique requires coordination among colony members. Workers learn which materials absorb liquids most effectively. Using this method helps ants gather a wider variety of resources. It also demonstrates problem-solving abilities in insects. Researchers have documented variations of this behavior across different species. This form of tool use shows that even small animals can exhibit resourceful behavior. Overall, it emphasizes the remarkable collective intelligence of ants.

13. 13. Wrasse Fish Using Rocks to Crack Shells

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Wrasse fish drop clams onto hard surfaces to break them open. They carefully position themselves above suitable rocks before releasing the clams. Repeated dropping eventually cracks the tough shells. This behavior requires both precision and practice. The fish evaluate which surfaces are most effective for breaking the clams. Researchers have observed individual differences in technique among fish. The behavior is similar to tool-assisted feeding seen in mammals. It demonstrates that tool use is not limited to land-dwelling animals. This example reveals surprising intelligence in fish. It also broadens our understanding of marine foraging strategies.

14. 14. Gorillas Using Sticks to Gauge Water Depth

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Gorillas sometimes use sticks to test water depth before crossing rivers or puddles. They insert the stick into the water and observe how far it sinks. This behavior helps them avoid potentially dangerous areas. Scientists consider it evidence of foresight and planning. It also demonstrates awareness of environmental risks. Gorillas may use other objects in similar ways to gather information. These actions reveal problem-solving abilities beyond simple feeding tasks. Using tools in this manner increases safety during daily travel. The technique shows that tool use can serve multiple purposes. Overall, gorillas display flexible and intelligent thinking in natural settings.

15. 15. Kea Parrots Manipulating Objects for Accessing Food

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Kea parrots in New Zealand manipulate sticks, stones, and other objects to access food. They often rely on trial and error to discover effective solutions. Their natural curiosity drives extensive experimentation. Researchers observe that kea invent new strategies when faced with challenges. These birds are known for their remarkable persistence. They also learn by observing the actions of other kea. Tool use sometimes appears playful, yet it serves practical purposes. Their intelligence surprises many scientists who study avian behavior. Kea excel at problem-solving tasks in their natural habitats. Overall, they are considered among the smartest bird species on the planet.

16. 16. Baboons Using Brush Sticks to Clean Food

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Some baboon groups use sticks to remove thorns or insects from food sources. This behavior makes certain plants safer and easier to eat. Baboons select sticks carefully based on flexibility and length. Young baboons observe older individuals to learn the technique. The behavior reduces the risk of injury while feeding. It also expands the range of available food options. Researchers believe this practice demonstrates cultural learning within the group. Baboons display remarkable adaptability across many different environments. Using tools to clean food increases overall feeding efficiency. The behavior reflects advanced social and cognitive development in these primates.

17. 17. Sea Urchins Using Shells for Protection

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Sea urchins often pick up shells or stones and place them on their bodies for camouflage. These objects help protect them from predators. They use their tube feet to carefully secure the items in place. The behavior also provides protection from harsh sunlight. Researchers consider this a simple yet effective form of tool use. Urchins show preferences for certain shapes and sizes of objects. The items help them blend into their surroundings. This strategy increases their chances of survival in open habitats. The behavior demonstrates that tool use occurs even in relatively simple organisms. Overall, it highlights the remarkable diversity of survival strategies in marine ecosystems.

18. 18. Ravens Using Sticks to Explore Dangerous Objects

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Ravens often use sticks to investigate unfamiliar or potentially risky objects. They maintain safety by keeping a distance while probing. This behavior reflects both caution and intelligence. Ravens are well known for their strategic thinking in challenging situations. They adjust the size and type of stick depending on the task at hand. Researchers observe complex problem-solving abilities in this species. Ravens sometimes collaborate with others during exploration and investigation. Using tools in this way reduces their physical risk. It also allows them to access food or information safely. Overall, tool use in ravens reveals their exceptionally high cognitive abilities.

19. 19. Dingoes Using Detritus to Trap Fish

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Some dingoes place leaves or pieces of bark in shallow water to attract fish. The objects create shade, which draws fish beneath them. The dingoes then strike quickly to catch their prey. This behavior demonstrates planning and situational awareness. It allows them to obtain food in arid regions where resources are limited. The technique can vary among individual dingoes. Researchers study how young dingoes learn and adopt this method. The behavior highlights flexibility and innovation in hunting strategies. It reinforces the idea that tool use is more widespread among mammals than is often assumed. Overall, it shows that dingoes can adapt creatively to their environment.

20. 20. Crows Dropping Nuts on Roads for Cars to Crack

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Urban crows drop nuts onto busy roads to let passing cars crack them open. They wait safely on wires or railings while vehicles pass. After the cars have gone, the crows retrieve the exposed nuts. This behavior demonstrates their adaptation to human environments. It also reflects an understanding of cause and effect. Some crows even place nuts at crosswalks where cars are more likely to stop. Researchers view this behavior as evidence of innovation and problem solving. The birds communicate successful nut-cracking locations to others in their group. This technique highlights the high intelligence of urban wildlife. It remains one of the most famous examples of creative tool use in birds.

• Tags:
• Wildlife
• tool use
• animals
• skilled animals