Throughout history, humans have been fascinated by animal training. From beloved pets like cats and dogs to awe-inspiring circus acts featuring elephants and lions, the range of trainable animals is vast. But did you know that chickens can also be trained? It may sound surprising, but these feathered creatures have some unexpected talents.
An outstanding example is Jonggu, a chicken whose piano-playing skills have taken the internet by storm. In a viral video, Jonggu impresses with a rendition of Puccini that showcases the bird’s remarkable abilities. Despite popular misconceptions about chicken intelligence, they are indeed trainable.
Trainers have used food-based conditioning techniques to teach chickens to discern shapes, sizes, and colors. The training has been so successful that these birds can activate mechanisms, like nipple drinkers and feeders, to obtain their food. They can even differentiate between different grains based on color cues, demonstrating their ability to recognize and respond to colors.
While chicken training may be a niche pursuit, one name stands out in this field: V.L. Durov. Known for his significant contributions to chicken training methodologies, he has pushed the boundaries of what these birds can learn. Jonggu, the piano-playing chicken from Maryland, is a testament to Durov’s expertise. Guided by illuminated keys, Jonggu enchants with her musical prowess. And just like any performer, she occasionally makes mistakes, adding a touch of relatable humanity to her performances.
But Maryland isn’t the only place where musical chicken training has taken place. In China, a student at a Guizhou agricultural college successfully taught a chicken to play three songs on the piano. Within just three months, they accomplished this feat as part of an examination assignment on the psychology of animal behavior.
These stories of chicken training showcase the incredible abilities of these animals and challenge our preconceived notions. Chickens are far more than just farm animals; they possess intelligence and skills that can be nurtured and developed. So, the next time you see a chicken strutting around, remember that there may be hidden talents waiting to be discovered.
