Which animal is closest to humans in intelligence?

The Dolphin can be considered to have the second most powerful as well as complex brain in animals as compared to the human brain.

They have a large brain just like chimpanzees. Such large brained animals are seen to survive a longer span of life, have an affiliation with social groups and portray complete dependence on their parents during their childhood.

Studies conducted by “The Dolphin Institute” in Honolulu, Hawaii have shown that dolphins can imitate certain human behavior of their trainers. So if the trainer raises his leg, the dolphin would raise its tail showing his recognition of this act!

It has also been discovered that dolphins can identify themselves in a mirror through making movements or ‘’contingency testing’.’ Besides Dolphins also have the capability to interpret behaviors as portrayed through the television and to respond to the gestures that are shown if they are exposed to the small screen.

It is the first of its kind that has been found to respond in this manner while other species including dogs , cats and chimpanzees have failed to show such responses when exposed to the same. Dolphins can also mimic their fellow dolphins! In such a situation one dolphin performs the act of the “ demonstrator” while the other animal acts as the “imitator” of the former!

If you happen to visit these amazing species with your children next time, watch their ability to identify and distinguish between adults and children as you may find them acting more gentle and being more patient with kids!