Science Café - Intelligence of Dolphins - April 18, 2011

News item published on: 2011-04-08 11:26:28

Dr. Stan Kuczaj, Professor of Psychology and Director of the Southern Miss Marine Mammal Behavior and Cognition Laboratory, will discuss research on dolphin cognition and communication, as well as correlations between dolphin and human behavior at the next Science Café Monday, April 18 from 6 to 7:30 p.m. Guests will view "How Smart are Dolphins," a Nova Science episode that aired February 9, 2011 that featured Dr. Kuczaj and his research.

Off the coast of Honduras, on Roatan Island, a legendary experiment in dolphin communication is being attempted for the first time in 20 years; one that could prove that dolphins can, in effect, "speak" with one another to coordinate their behavior. Other studies reveal that these playful marine mammals can plan ahead and problem-solve in ways few other animals can.

Held in the Starbucks coffee shop at Cook Library, The Science Café series offers those with minimal or no background in science the chance to meet and discuss scientific issues in layman's terms in a relaxed social setting. A member of the Southern Miss faculty shares his or her expertise at each session with a presentation and short NOVA video. Admission is free and open to the public.

For more information contact Tracy Englert at 601.266.6396 or via e-mail. Additional information can be found at the PBS Nova website.