Expert: Walter Hintz - 1/13/2010

Question
Why do some animals retain "consciousness" after decapitation?

Answer
Hi Edwin:
 What animals are you thinking?  The key word here is consciousness.  If you chop the head of a chicken it will flop around until it bleeds to death and the heart stops. Is it conscious during this time? Not likely. It is conscious of its surroundings do to its sensory input. Without a head it has no input. There is a world of difference between the consciousness of a chicken and you and I. Behind my in a tank I have a tarantula. This spider responds to certain stimuli but does it have a consciousness? Consciousness requires a central nervous system capable of stimulating thoughts and storing memories. This type of brain is found in primates. I also ave a lizard.  If he had a primate type brain he would go crazy. He sits in a tank with nothing to do for 24/7. I suppose I have not answered your question. That is because I have doubts that you statement is accurate