I agree with you totally. What I am curious about were you ever not a 'tree' but something to fear? And if so when did that change and what was that change? I know that it is some sort of learned response that isn't an emotion but it is recognition of non hostility or some snakie varation right? I suggest that emaotion and affection isn't the right words but if it was no longer sees me as a threat or as something to fear. I personally would say of my 7 all but 2 absolutely do. Oddly 2 of mine still react to my motion and presence with fear and hiding one of mine disregaurds me when I change his water and often after I have him out (I always change the water and wash the bowl out) he will stop to drink on the way back in while I am holding him.