Neuronal Density (IMAGE) Ruhr-University Bochum Caption The density of nerve cells in the human cerebral cortex is six times smaller than in the respective brain region in pigeons. Consequently, the average distance between two neurons in pigeons is only approximately half the size compared to that in humans. If nerve cell groups have to exchange information in rapid succession, pigeons are faster, because the transmitted signals travel a much shorter distance. Credit Onur Guentuerkuen Usage Restrictions This image may only be used for reporting about the Ruhr-Universitaet Bochum in the context of the press release "Pigeons better at multitasking than humans" published in September 2017. License Licensed content Disclaimer: AAAS and EurekAlert! are not responsible for the accuracy of news releases posted to EurekAlert! by contributing institutions or for the use of any information through the EurekAlert system.