Volume 26, Issue 16, Pages R739-R742 (August 2016) Talking with animals  Michael Gross  Current Biology  Volume 26, Issue 16, Pages R739-R742 (August 2016) DOI: 10.1016/j.cub.2016.08.006 Copyright © 2016 Terms and Conditions

Honey hunting: The Yao in northern Mozambique cooperate with honeyguide birds to raid bees’ nests, which the birds locate and the humans then break up to provide food for both. Humans and birds have specific calls for their joint honey-hunting expeditions, which have been established for several centuries at least. (Photo: Claire N. Spottiswoode.) Current Biology 2016 26, R739-R742DOI: (10.1016/j.cub.2016.08.006) Copyright © 2016 Terms and Conditions

Barking sane: While often regarded as a nuisance, barking in dogs can specifically and reliably communicate information about the dog’s situation and inner state. It is likely to have evolved as part of their adaptation to living with humans. (Photo: Nina Knowlton.) Current Biology 2016 26, R739-R742DOI: (10.1016/j.cub.2016.08.006) Copyright © 2016 Terms and Conditions

Cat calls: Meowing in cats, like barking in dogs, is believed to have evolved as a communication channel mainly aimed at human associates. (Photo: Wikicommons.) Current Biology 2016 26, R739-R742DOI: (10.1016/j.cub.2016.08.006) Copyright © 2016 Terms and Conditions

Bird brain: While many bird species can copy sound or even human speech, only very few reports exist of parrots actually using language to communicate. Based on recent insights into intelligence and consciousness in birds, however, it is not considered impossible. (Photo: Mary Devane.) Current Biology 2016 26, R739-R742DOI: (10.1016/j.cub.2016.08.006) Copyright © 2016 Terms and Conditions