23 September 2023 , 18:33
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A group of crocodiles have been captured rescuing a stray dog that had been chased into a river by other feral dogs, in what experts say may show a display of cross-species empathy.
The incident was observed and reported in a scientific study examining the emotional capacity, behaviour and cognition of reptiles. Researchers in India observed stray dogs mingling among sunbathing crocodiles in the Savitri River in India, and reported the results in their study published in the 'Journal of Threatened Taxa'.
Surprisingly, according to the scientists, the crocodiles displayed no signs of hostility toward these dogs, indicating a form of mutual habituation. Yet, there were instances when the crocodiles did prey on the dogs, highlighting the unpredictability of these interactions.
Eventually, a young dog, seemingly chased by a pack of feral dogs, sought refuge in the river. At that moment, three adult crocodiles were spotted floating nearby, and their attention was drawn to the distressed dog. Initially, it appeared to be a classic predatory instinct, but something unexpected unfolded.
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The dog was saved thanks to 'sentient behaviour' by the crocodiles (Wildlife Information Liaison Development (WILD) Society /Journal of Threatened Taxa)Instead of attacking the vulnerable dog, two of the three crocodiles exhibited a more docile behaviour. They used their snouts to nudge the dog towards the riverbank, guiding it to safety away from the waiting pack of feral dogs.
The study noted: "What initially seemed to be a classical predatory instinct of the Mugger towards the hapless prey, soon turned out to be a more docile behaviour by two of the three crocodiles that guided the dog away from the site where it would have been vulnerable to being attacked by the pack of feral dogs waiting on the river bank. These crocodiles were actually touching the dog with their snout and nudging it to move further for a safe ascent on the bank and eventually escape."
This astonishing incident sparked curiosity and debate among the researchers. While the crocodiles were well within striking distance, they chose not to harm the dog. Researchers proposed that this may be a case of sentient behaviour, suggesting a form of 'emotional empathy' among these reptiles.
Reptiles have often been underestimated when it comes to their cognitive abilities (De Agostini via Getty Images)Reptiles have often been underestimated when it comes to their cognitive abilities, partly due to the misconception that they are primarily lethargic and instinct-driven creatures, the researchers claimed. Recent studies, however, have challenged these biases, revealing a range of complex behaviours, including tool use, among reptilian species.
The study's authors claimed that "Reptiles have been underestimated as far as animal cognition is concerned." Crocodiles and alligators are now considered among the most cognitively complex non-avian reptiles. They display a diverse repertoire of behaviours in various contexts, from hunting to social interactions and even communication in multiple modalities.
For example, according to the study, some crocodiles have been observed using tools and bait to attract prey, a behaviour once thought to be exclusive to mammals. They also display sophisticated hunting strategies, such as using vegetation as camouflage or bait to optimize their hunting success.
While reports of reptiles playing with objects like flowers exist, these observations require further study to confirm. The presence of flowers in the water where crocodiles reside may lead to attacks, as the reptiles might mistake them for potential prey. However, some suggest that the antimicrobial properties of marigold flowers may offer health benefits to crocodiles in sewage-contaminated environments.