Self-awareness in Malayan Sun Bear (Helarctos Malayanus): a case of cognitive study

Ramali, Mohd Hanafi (2016) Self-awareness in Malayan Sun Bear (Helarctos Malayanus): a case of cognitive study. [Project Paper] (Submitted)

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Abstract

Animal cognitive function is the process of understanding and improvement of animal’s memory capacities, stimulus-responses and attention. In some animals, cognitive function refers to self-awareness, which described as an understanding that one’s own mirror reflection does not represent another individual but oneself. The mirror self-recognition (MSR) test or mark test is a behavioral technique to determine whether an animal possesses the ability of self-recognition or self-awareness. Thus, the objective of this study is to measure the ability of Malayan Sun bear in mirror self-awareness. An animal was selected (n=1; Helarctos malayanus) from Zoo Negara Malaysia and the acrylic mirror (A1 size - 60x84cm) is placed outside of the cage. The animal also was marked using a non-toxic white paint on its forehead. It was then monitored under different type of tests; covered mirror test (CMT), open mirror test (OMT) and mark test (MAT) for a period of 5 days with 4 slots in 15 minutes per day. The MSR behaviors were recorded using video camera and analyzed using the ethogram procedure. Animals that are considered to recognize themselves typically through 4 stages; social responses, physical inspection, repetitive and realization behavior. Results showed that the MSR behavior were inconsistent and did not clearly undergo 4 stages of behavior. The results also were inconclusive due to inability of the animal to recognize their own reflection in the CMT, OMT and MAT. This study provides valuable information on the cognitive ability of sun bears as an effort to help animals, such as to enhance management and in program to re-establish populations of endangered or threatened species.

Item Type:	Project Paper
Faculty:	Faculty of Veterinary Medicine
Depositing User:	Ms Nurhaznita Mahmood
Date Deposited:	26 Aug 2024 02:54
Last Modified:	26 Aug 2024 02:54
URI:	http://psaspb.upm.edu.my/id/eprint/572

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