Belugas Can Recognize Themselves in Mirrors, Joining a Short List of Nonhuman Species That Show Signs of Self-Awareness

Sarah Kuta· May 22, 2026 · 2:00 PM UTC ·5 min read · 0 reactions · 0 comments · 51 views

#marine biology #animal behavior #conservation

TL;DR · WeSearch summary

Recent research indicates that belugas can recognize themselves in mirrors, suggesting a level of self-awareness previously thought to be unique to humans. This discovery may enhance empathy towards these intelligent marine mammals and promote conservation efforts. The study involved four captive belugas at the New York Aquarium, revealing their ability to engage in behaviors indicative of self-recognition.

Key facts

▪Belugas have been found to recognize themselves in mirrors, joining a select group of non-human species with this ability.
▪The study was conducted with four captive belugas at the New York Aquarium, including three adult females and one juvenile.
▪Researchers observed behaviors such as jaw clapping and head movements that indicated the whales were testing their reflections.
▪The findings suggest that self-recognition may be linked to social and empathetic traits in species.
▪Belugas face various threats, including climate change and disturbances from human activities.

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Smithsonian Magazine files mainly under science. We currently carry 112 of its stories.

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Smithsonian Magazine · Sarah Kuta

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Original publisher	Smithsonian Magazine
Canonical URL	https://www.smithsonianmag.com/smart-news/belugas-can-recognize-themselves-in-mirrors-joining-a-short-list-of-non-human-species-that-show-signs-of-self-awareness-180988783/
Publication time	Fri, 22 May 2026 14:00:00 +0000
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Opening excerpt (first ~120 words) tap to expand

Belugas Can Recognize Themselves in Mirrors, Joining a Short List of Nonhuman Species That Show Signs of Self-Awareness The researchers hope that this new understanding of cognition in the toothed whales will increase human empathy and concern for the animals, leading to more efforts to protect them Sarah Kuta | Daily Correspondent May 22, 2026 10:00 a.m. ShareCopy linkEmailSMSFacebookXRedditLinkedInBlueskyPrintAdd as preferred source The researchers studied four captive belugas housed at the New York Aquarium of the Wildlife Conservation Society. Marine Mind / Abigail Carleen Dahl, CC-BY 4.0 Belugas are highly intelligent marine mammals with intricate communication systems and strong social bonds. Now, new research suggests that the toothed whales are also self-aware.

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