When I say conscious of having consciousness (or for some, being conscious), I'm talking that you, as the individual, are aware that you exist and are
somebody.
No, this is not a self-esteem promoting post, if you are wondering.
Regardless, I suppose I'm asking (in your opinion) if in order to be considered an "intelligent" species, in the sense of being able to formulate language, culture, civilization, etc., would an animal
have to be conscious of its existence and know, for a fact, that they are a unique individual? That they exist in a metaphysical sense?
TL: DR: Conscious of being conscious: Is it the prime factor for something to be classified as an "intelligent" species?