Crows can use self-control to hold out for favourite food 

Mealworms, meat, apples, and other foods were used in the scientific experiment

A New Caledonian Crow. Crows will hold out for their favourite food regardless of whether a rival bird is present, a study has indicated. However, jays will settle for a less preferred food option when another bird is there rather than wait for their favourite and risk losing out, according to research by Anglia Ruskin University and Cambridge University. Picture: Martina Schiestl/Anglia Ruskin University/PA Wire

Crows will hold out for their favourite food regardless of whether a rival bird is present, a study has indicated.

However, jays will settle for a less preferred food option when another bird is there rather than wait for their favourite and risk losing out, according to research by Anglia Ruskin and Cambridge universities.