Since the beginning of research on animal self-awareness in 1970, scientists have tested many species for signs of reflection. While humans are not the only ones capable of self-recognition, only a few animals have passed the mirror test.
Chimpanzees were the first to be studied and showed clear signs of self-awareness. Other great apes like orangutans and bonobos also passed the test, as did an Asian elephant and rats. However, some species, such as monkeys and African grey parrots, failed.
Dolphins and magpies have also exhibited self-recognition in mirrors, raising questions about the true nature of self-awareness in animals and whether the mirror test is a reliable measure of it. Lower animals like ants and fish have also shown signs of self-awareness when looking at their reflections, sparking controversy among researchers about its significance in understanding animal cognitive abilities.
