It seems that it's pretty easy to recognize yourself in the mirror, but most animals don't do that - it's just not necessary for their survival.
Meanwhile, some animals are intelligent enough to understand when they see themselves in mirrors.
Let's find out more.
Great Apes
Chimpanzees, bonobos, and orangutans are among the few non-human species that have demonstrated mirror self-recognition.
They can recognize themselves in mirrors and exhibit behaviors such as examining their own bodies, making facial expressions, and using the mirror to explore their own surroundings.
Dolphins
Bottlenose dolphins have shown signs of self-recognition by using mirrors.
They can perform self-directed behaviors, such as swimming in front of the mirror and observing their own bodies.
Elephants
Some studies suggest that elephants possess mirror self-recognition.
They have been observed using mirrors to examine themselves, touch their bodies, and make specific movements while interacting with the mirror.
European Magpies
These birds have shown signs of self-recognition in mirror experiments.
They have been observed making specific movements and using the mirror to explore hard-to-see body parts.
Manta Rays
Recent research has indicated that manta rays may possess mirror self-recognition.
They have exhibited behaviors such as inspecting their bodies and performing unique movements while encountering mirrors.
