Scientists believe rare rescue is a sign that the fearsome reptiles may be capable of compassion
In an apparent example of interspecies compassion, a group of crocodiles appeared to usher a dog to safety after it fell into a dangerous river.
The dog, believed to be a stray, was being chased by a pack of other feral canines when it jumped into the River Savirtri in India out of harm’s way, or so it thought.
But the river was infested by local mugger crocodiles, and three of them were floating near the stray.
This should have been the end of the helpless pup, with the crocs being “well within the striking range,” according to a report published by scientists in the Journal of Threatening Taxa.
However, the crocodiles appeared to usher the dog back to safety on the shore.
“These crocodiles were actually touching the dog with their snouts and nudging it to move further for a safe ascent on the bank and eventually escape,” the researchers wrote.
“The muggers were well within the striking range and could have easily devoured the dog, yet none of them attacked and instead chose to nudge it towards the bank, implying that the hunger drive was absent.”
The researchers say that the crocodiles were “docile”. Adult male mugger crocs can reach 18 feet long and weigh up to 1,000 pounds, according to the Wildlife Institute of India.
The researchers said they believe that the pup rescue could be a sign of the crocs having emotional intelligence.
“The curious case of a dog ‘rescued’ by the group of crocodiles reported here seems more on lines of empathy than altruistic behaviour,” the scientists said.
Aside from the muggers’ apparent alliance with stray dogs, scientists discovered another wholesome obsession that the crocs appeared to have: marigold flowers.
Crocodiles are often seen floating or laying in marigolds, often keeping “physical contact” with the yellow flowers, which the researchers note have compounds that can protect skin from fungi and bacteria.
The Savitri River is polluted with sewage and other harmful ingredients, so this may be why they like to have contact with the petals.
Creating Lasting Memories by the Sea: A Heartfelt Journey with Our Beloved Dog Before She Crosses the Rainbow Bridge
In the face of unimaginable challenges, Noah’s story is a testament to the power of love and compassion. This brave soul, plagued by tumors and critical health conditions, was once a forsaken street dog.
But thanks to the incredible efforts of Laika, a charity based in Culiacán, Sinaloa, Mexico, Noah found herself surrounded by love in her final months. When Noah was rescued, she could barely walk due to her overgrown nails and was covered in tumors. The Fundación Laika Protectora de Animales, A.C. rescued her from a life of isolation, neglect, and pain.
Despite her terminal condition, Noah was promised happiness, love, and companionship. She watched the sunset, felt the cool sea breeze, and experienced the kindness of people who cared for her.
Noah’s journey came to an end, but not without leaving a lasting impact on those who knew her. Her courage and resilience inspired all who crossed her path. We bid her farewell with love and gratitude for the valuable lessons she taught us about compassion and the enduring spirit of animals.
Let Noah’s story be a reminder that even in the face of adversity, love can transform lives.
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