Question: Using the examples from the lecture, explain the professor's main point about animal tool use and how it demonstrates cognitive flexibility.
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Today, we're going to talk about a fascinating concept in animal behavior called 'tool use' — the ability of animals to use objects from their environment to achieve a goal. This is not limited to primates; many species exhibit this. The key point is that tool use can be learned or even innovated, showing cognitive flexibility. Let me give you two examples. First, consider the New Caledonian crow. These birds craft hooks from twigs and leaves to extract insects from tree holes. Remarkably, they not only use tools but also modify them, and young crows learn this technique by observing their parents. Second, think about sea otters. They use rocks to crack open shellfish. A sea otter will float on its back, place a rock on its chest, and smash the shell against it. Interestingly, individual otters often have a favorite rock, which they keep in a pouch under their arm. This behavior is passed down from mother to pup, showing social learning. So, these examples illustrate that tool use in animals is not just instinctual but involves learning and adaptation.