Cannibalism, the act of consuming individuals of the same species, is a startling yet natural behaviour observed across the animal kingdom
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Here's a list of a few animals that are known to eat their own babies
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Female hamsters may eat their young if they feel stressed, or threatened, or if the litter is too large to manage
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Crocodiles usually protect their young, however, in some cases, adult crocodiles have been observed eating their own offspring, possibly due to territorial behaviour or scarcity of food
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In times of extreme hunger, a female polar bear has been known to eat her own cubs, especially if she is malnourished or struggling to find enough food
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Koalas occasionally eat their young, particularly when there is environmental pressure or stress, and the mother may view the baby as a weak link in her survival
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Certain reptile species, like snakes and lizards, have been observed eating their young, typically when they are under environmental stress or if the young are weak or ill
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Like hamsters, mother mice may consume their babies, particularly if they are under stress or if the babies are sick or deformed
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Tigers might eat their cubs if they are stillborn or severely injured, ensuring they focus their energy on raising healthier offspring