Tortoises have feelings too: Study shows they experience long-term moods like humans

A University of Lincoln study reveals that red-footed tortoises exhibit long-term mood states, indicating optimism and emotional resilience. Challenging the perception of reptiles as purely instinctual, the research used cognitive bias tests, showing that tortoises in enriched environments displayed more optimistic behaviors. These findings advocate for improved reptile welfare, urging consideration of their mental wellbeing in care and policy.

Science