What is the smartest animal?

If humans are viewed as animals, then they are the smartest animals in the world. If humans are excluded, then chimpanzees rank as the smartest animals.

Other than humans, chimpanzees exhibit the highest range of creativity, problem solving, tool making and collective work efforts. Chimpanzees are also self-aware and can recognize themselves in a mirror. In addition, chimpanzees are able to learn sign language and use it to communicate with humans. They are capable of solving complex problems and using symbols to convey ideas. They are known to exhibit empathy, which indicates they have a high level of emotional intelligence as well.