The distribution of self-consciousness between species is important to understand, not only for scientific reasons, but also because of its ethical implications for non-human animals. The predominant method for determining self-consciousness is to test self-recognition in a mirror using a mark test. However, most studies have involved very small samples, omitted a control condition and been conducted on captive animals.
In this study, we designed and implemented the first controlled spot test in the wild, using a laser pointer on a large sample (n = 51 individuals, 135 tests) of wild chacma baboons (Papio ursinus), observed in situ. The control tests showed that the baboons were interested in the spot, but this interest diminished with age, was more pronounced in males, and stronger for green spots than for red ones.
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