Do you ever look at animals and wonder if they have emotions, thoughts, or feelings like us? It turns out, the answer is yes! Animals do just like us in a variety of ways – from forming close relationships with one another to seeking out comfort when they’re feeling down. In this blog post, we’ll explore 7 amazing things that animals do that prove they’re just like us. From problem-solving to communication, you won’t believe how similar we are to the animals around us. So, let’s get started!
1. They Use Tools
Humans are not the only ones who use tools! In fact, many animals have developed the ability to craft and use tools. In the wild, apes have been observed using sticks and rocks to find food, while crows have been seen fashioning tools from twigs and wire.
Some animals even modify their tools for specific uses. For example, sea otters have been known to put stones in their pockets so that they can crack open shells. In addition, dolphins have learned to use sponges as a form of protection, placing them over their noses as they search for food on the ocean floor.
This behavior isn’t just limited to primates and sea creatures either. Even birds and mammals like chimpanzees, wolves, and elephants have been observed using tools. Animals are capable of using tools in the same way that humans do.
2. They Go to War
Animals don’t just fight for territory or mates, some species actually go to war. Chimpanzees and bonobos, close relatives of humans, often launch coordinated attacks against neighboring troops in what researchers have labeled “warfare”. Elephant families will also engage in fierce combat against rival families over resources or mates. But perhaps the most remarkable example is ants, which conduct full-scale wars between colonies complete with reconnaissance, strategy, and tactics. These battles can be bloody and last for days or weeks, with thousands of casualties on both sides. It’s amazing to think that our distant cousins have been engaging in warfare for millions of years before humans ever thought of it.
3. They Have Grieve
Grief is a powerful emotion that we humans experience. We understand the pain of losing a loved one and it can have a huge impact on our lives. But did you know that animals can also experience grief?
Research has shown that many animals have the capacity to grieve and mourn the loss of family members or close companions. Dolphins, for example, have been seen carrying their deceased calf around for days in an attempt to keep them safe. Elephants also show signs of mourning, such as staying near the body of their dead companion and displaying signs of distress. Even cats have been known to take time away from their owners when a beloved pet has died.
These acts of mourning show us just how deeply animals feel and provide us with a better understanding of the emotional lives of our animal friends. Next time you’re feeling down about the loss of a loved one, just remember – you’re not alone.
4. They Use Medicine
When it comes to caring for their health, animals are surprisingly similar to humans in many ways. While we may think of traditional medicine when it comes to treating illness, animals have been known to use a variety of natural remedies to cure what ails them.
In the wild, animals have been observed using plants and herbs to treat various ailments, such as arthritis, parasites, and even snake bites. For example, elephants have been seen rubbing and chewing on specific plants to ease their pain and discomfort.
In captivity, some animals have even been known to self-medicate. One study found that cats fed a diet deficient in certain vitamins and minerals would ingest clay or soil, which provided the missing nutrients.
Animals can also be trained to take medicine, just like we do. Pet owners have successfully taught their cats and dogs to take pills, while zoo animals have been trained to drink syrup or ingest vitamins and minerals with syringes.
Overall, the evidence is clear – animals are capable of using medicine to treat their own illnesses, just like humans. While more research is needed, this fascinating behavior only further demonstrates the amazing intelligence of our animal friends!
5. They Can Be Evil
It may be difficult to believe, but animals can display some very human-like behaviors—even the ones we would prefer to keep out of their lives. One such behavior is their capacity for evil. In some cases, animals can behave maliciously and with the intent to cause harm.
In 2015, a group of chimpanzees in Tanzania killed and ate a human baby, while another group of chimpanzees in Uganda killed an adult female. In both cases, the chimps were likely protecting their territory and/or resources. Other examples of animal evil include a family of hyenas that attacked and killed an 11-year-old girl in Ethiopia and a pack of wild dogs that killed two children in India.
These incidents show us that animals can display disturbing behaviors, especially when they are threatened or feel threatened. While it’s important to remember that not all animals act this way, it’s also important to be aware of the potential for danger so that we can take steps to protect ourselves and our families from any aggressive animals we may encounter.
6. They Have Art
Art is a reflection of the creator’s thoughts, feelings, and experiences, so it makes sense that animals have art as well. In some cases, animals have been observed creating art to communicate or express themselves in ways they can’t with words. For example, dolphins have been seen creating intricate patterns and designs by blowing air bubbles underwater. These bubbles form unique shapes and colors in the water.
Birds are also known for their artistic abilities. They are capable of making beautiful pieces of art by rearranging pieces of grass, leaves, stones, and feathers. Some birds also use their beaks to draw abstract lines and shapes in the dirt.
Elephants, too, have been known to create beautiful works of art. They have been observed using their trunks to pick up paintbrushes and then using them to draw abstract works on canvas. Elephants have also been known to use their trunks to paint pictures on large rocks and other surfaces.
The fact that animals can create art proves that they are much more than just instinctual creatures. It shows that they can think creatively and express themselves in ways similar to humans. So next time you admire a piece of art, remember that your furry friends may have created something similar.
7. They Sleep
Sleep is an important part of life for humans and animals alike. In fact, many animals sleep longer than humans do! Scientists estimate that giraffes can sleep for up to four and a half hours per day, while lions can sleep up to 20 hours in a 24-hour period. Other animals like dolphins and bats have adapted to be able to “sleep with one eye open” so that they can rest without being completely vulnerable.
Humans and animals also have similar sleeping patterns. For example, we both have circadian rhythms that regulate when we naturally become sleepy or wake up. Studies have found that even animals as small as fruit flies follow this pattern of sleep and wakefulness. Interestingly, animals such as cats and dogs can even experience the same kinds of sleep disorders that humans do, such as narcolepsy.
Sleep is an important part of life for humans and animals. Whether it’s getting eight hours of shuteye a night or catching some afternoon naps, both species are sure to be getting their beauty rest.
