Developed by Gordon Gallup Jr. in 1970, the mirror test was designed as a qualitative way to assess if animals possess self-awareness. The test is simple; place a mirror in front of an animal. Do they recognize the reflection in the mirror as themselves? This is tested with two dye spots being placed on the test subject, a test spot (in an area the animal will see clearly in the mirror) and a control spot (on a hidden part of the body). To pass the test, the animal will behave in a way that shows they are aware of this dot. They will position their body to look at the dot or use their reflection to inspect the dot on their own body. Presently humans (after 18 months), apes (gibbons, bonobos, orangutans, chimpanzees and gorillas), elephants, bottlenose dolphins, orcas, pigeons and European Magpies have passed this test. When presented with mirrors animals, will typically study their face, teeth and other areas of the body they normally aren’t able to see.
At Chimp Haven Inc., mirrors are given to the chimpanzees as enrichment. They are offered small mirrors that are hung on the outside of the mesh or larger mirrors that are placed a couple of feet from the mesh. It is thrilling every time to watch the reactions of the chimps when mirrors are put up. Elsie, a playful 34 year old chimp, always has the best response. Recently, I was able to watch her as I was setting up this enrichment in the wing. Elsie was being groomed by her long time companion Johnnie, who was removing bits of hay from her hair. I put the mirror up in the room next to where they were interacting. Elsie immediately broke their grooming session and ran over to the mirror. She positioned herself directly in front of the mirror gazing deeply into her own yellow-tan eyes. Johnnie slowly followed and tried to resume their grooming. Elsie flicked her hands away from her. Looking into the mirror, Elsie began to pick the remaining bits of straw off her head and chest. It is amazing how such a simple behavior that we participate in daily, can be used to show a higher level of cognition in animals.
-Adrienne Mrsny
