LIZARDS AND INTELLIGENCE
I’m not a fan of lizards. Nor do I claim to be fond of reptiles in general. However, since their probable ancestors (the Dinosaurs) ruled the Earth for millions of years, I should show more respect.
Reptiles are not known for being smart, at least in human terms. I think it’s interesting that we always place ourselves at the top of the intelligence pyramid. A toad must be stupid if it can’t appreciate a sunset or select color-coordinated shoes.
While I can’t fathom a toad’s choices, it’s probably smarter than I am at the survival game. Some species can survive being frozen. Their blood has a type of anti-freeze that prevents ice crystals from forming in their organs and killing them.
Now, that’s a pretty neat trick. But it’s bad news for all those cryogenically-frozen, smart people out there. Even if technology improves to resurrect them someday, I think their bodies will be unusable as-is.
Of course, people who just have their heads frozen aren’t counting on a body anyway, but they won’t have an intact brain either. And without that, what’s the point.
Our notions of intelligence keep evolving. And it’s a good thing, too, as it gives those dismissed as lacking in grey-matter, a second chance. Take bums, for instance.
Though they generally have a poor reputation, they are good at surviving on minimal resources. That’s more than I can say about debt-ridden executives.
For decades, Neanderthals got a bum-rap in the smarts department. They were depicted as little more than dull, hairy thugs. Current thinking is they were as smart as we are.
There’s also evidence they had fair complexions, blue eyes and light-colored hair — very different from the hulking, dark-brute stereotype. However, since they’re no longer with us, it can’t be true that blonds always have more fun.
Even some dinosaurs, formally dismissed as being only blood-thirsty, eating machines (like Tyrannosaurus Rex or “T-Rex”) are getting a make-over. Female T-Rex’s may have shown motherly behavior toward their young. Still, I wouldn’t want to be cuddled by one.
As far as lizards go, Australian monitor lizards are smart and adaptable. I was watching a show on TV about how they learn quickly, both in natural and artificial environments, and can even count up to six.
While I believe the naturalist who breathlessly announced this last attribute, I wonder how he figured that out. Was it because the lizard bit off only six of his toes?
In any case, having the ability to plan is remarkable for an animal, in less enlightened times, we considered only in terms of a ladies fashion accessory.
Reptiles could rule the Earth once again if we aren’t careful with our management of them and their resources. And I, for one, want to stay on their good side.
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