2025-07-17T02:30:00Z

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Imagine discovering that your seemingly stoic tortoise might be silently navigating life with the emotional depth of a seasoned philosopher. That's exactly what researchers from the University of Lincoln have unearthed in an eye-opening study that could revolutionize our understanding of reptile emotions.

The study focused on red-footed tortoises, unveiling that these shelled creatures might experience mood states, such as optimism and anxiety, akin to emotions long believed to be exclusive to mammals and birds. The research, which involved cognitive bias tests originally designed for humans, observed how tortoises from enriched environments displayed more optimistic behaviors.

This significant revelation flips the script on the notion that reptiles are mere instinct-driven beings, offering an exciting glimpse into the emotional landscape of these resilient creatures. By engaging fifteen red-footed tortoises in a series of tests, researchers found that those in lively, enriched enclosures, complete with natural elements and ample stimulation, were more likely to interpret ambiguous cues positively.

Further intrigue arose when scientists placed the tortoises in mildly stressful situations. Those that had previously shown optimism also seemed less anxious, hinting at a tangible consistency in their emotional states. Such findings could have profound implications for how reptiles are housed and cared for, highlighting the need for environments that cater to their emotional wellbeing.

In the UK, the Animal Welfare (Sentience) Act 2022 recognizes animals' capacity to feel, yet reptiles often remain on the sidelines of these discussions. Professor Anna Wilkinson, a leading figure in animal cognition, advocates for the inclusion of reptiles in this conversation, especially as their popularity as pets continues to rise.

This ground-breaking study not only compels us to reconsider how we view reptile intelligence but also urges a more compassionate approach towards their care. Could it be that tortoises, and perhaps other 'cold-blooded' creatures, hold emotional narratives we have long overlooked? The implications are staggering, suggesting that affective states may have evolved much earlier in the animal kingdom than previously thought.