托福口语 Task 4

Today, we're going to talk about a fascinating phenomenon in animal behavior called 'tool use.' Now, tool use isn't just about using an object to get food—it's about modifying or manipulating an object to achieve a goal, and it shows cognitive flexibility. Let me give you two examples. First, consider the sea otter. Sea otters float on their backs and use rocks to crack open shellfish. They'll even keep a favorite rock tucked under their arm for repeated use. This isn't just random—it requires selecting a suitable rock, positioning it on their belly, and striking the shell with the right force. Second, think about the woodpecker finch from the Galápagos Islands. This bird uses a cactus spine or a small twig to pry insects out of tree bark. It will even modify the twig by breaking it to the right length. In both cases, the animals aren't just using objects—they're adapting their tools to the task, which suggests problem-solving and planning. So, the main point is that tool use in animals demonstrates advanced cognitive abilities beyond simple instinct.