Dolphins are among the few animals on Earth that possess self-awareness, demonstrated by their ability to recognize themselves in mirrors. In scientific studies, dolphins have passed the mirror self-recognition test—a cognitive milestone once thought to be exclusive to humans and great apes.In this test, a dolphin is marked with a visible spot on a part of its body that it can’t see without a mirror. When shown a mirror, the dolphin inspects the mark, often twisting and turning to get a better look—clear evidence that it understands the reflection is itself, not another dolphin.This ability places dolphins in an elite group of animals that includes chimpanzees, elephants, and magpies, all known to demonstrate signs of self-awareness. It suggests that dolphins possess complex cognition, a sense of identity, and perhaps even elements of consciousness.REFERENCE:Kate Wong, "Dolphin Self-Recognition Mirrors Our Own", Scientific American (2001)
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