Tinklepaugh (1932) conducted experiments to determine the intellegence of the wood turtle. Using a labyrinth, he concluded Glyptemys (Clemmys) insculpta had the learning capacity of a rat. In personal experiments and observations(B. Schnirel,1985,1998) the wood turtle does indeed show great resourcefulness in problem solving. One male in particular was quite adroit at climbing and would systematically probe for weaknesses at all levels in the outdoor fencing he was kept in. In a variation to the labyrinth experiment, a three dimensional approach was conducted in 1985. Ramps were used to allow choices at 3 different heights. Wood turtles in the experiment quickly learned the right route to find food or females placed in a consistent area.
Yerkes (1901) conducted the famous 'space reaction'experiments. Included on his guest list was none other than our friend, the wood turtle. The experiments tested the animal's fear of heights. What was learned was the more aquatic the species, the more careless the species is in regards to heights. This is due to aquatic animals being used to dropping off stones, logs, or whatever into boyount water. How did the wood turtle make out? It was found to have less fear of heights than the more aquatic spotted turtle. In tests performed (B.Schnirel,1985) at various heights up to 20 feet, great fear and respect of height was demonstrated by the wood turtle. The turtles would stick their heads way over to inspect the untouchable surface with a note of displeasure. More aquatic species would simply walk straight off the edge. No turtles were hurt in the experiments and special precautions were taken.
Glyptemys (Clemmys) insculpta appears more cognizant of it's own reflections when facing mirrors. Experiments conducted (B. Schnirel, 1985) with wood turtles showed that individuals would stop, lower their heads and touch 'noses' with their reflections. Other turtles and tortoises tested (Geocheleone carbonaria, Geocheleone denticulata,Geochelone chilensis, Testudo horsfieldi, Kinixys belliana belliana, Gopherus polyphemus, Terrapene carolina carolina,Terrapene carolina bauri,and Rhinoclemmys pulcherima showed no interest in their mirrored image.
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