5 Animals Who Grieve Like Humans

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8 August 2024

Grief is often perceived as a uniquely human experience, but research has revealed that animals also exhibit profound mourning behaviours

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From poignant displays of sorrow to rituals that honour the dead, the animal kingdom is replete with examples of creatures coping with loss 

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Here are 5 animals that exhibit grief-like behaviours similar to humans

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1. Elephants: They bury and mourn their dead, often visiting graves and displaying signs of sadness and loss

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2. Chimpanzees: They have been seen carrying the bodies of their dead babies, often for weeks, while crying and screaming out in grief

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Some become so depressed after a loss that they refuse to eat, sometimes even starving to death

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3. Dolphins: They have been observed holding their dead calves in their fins, refusing to let go, and displaying signs of distress

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Dlolphins, like elephants and apes, may understand their own mortality and that of their loved ones

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4. Crows: They engage in funeral-like behaviours, gathering around their dead and paying respects with quiet, solemn interactions

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5. Dogs: They often display intense emotional responses to the loss of their human companions or pack members, including whining, pacing, and searching for the dead

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