The mad scientists had a cunning scheme: they would affix tracking devices to a flock of magpies. The devices would be held into the backs of the birds with powerful magnets. The scientists would then laugh maniacally while the poor magpies were unable to evade detection.
But, ABC News reports, the brave and resourceful magpies were able to outwit their foes. Magpies are social animals and social animals generally have high problems solving abilities. 10 minutes after fitting trackers onto the magpies, one of the trackers went dead. Then the scientists witnessed the birds cooperatively removing each other’s tracking devices. Within 3 days, all of the birds were free from the infernal devices.
-via Dave Barry | Photo: Birds as Poetry