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.
Touching rescue: despite her injured nose, the puppy gave kisses as soon as she could.
It is a reminder that even in the darkest of times, there is always the potential for kindness and compassion.
This brave little girl was saved by a nice passer-by after her nose bled heavily, splattering her legs with clotted blood. She was put onto a carry-basket and evaluated for injuries, including a seriously sprained leg.
Despite her suffering and bewilderment, she proved to be a tough braveheart. After getting pain treatment, supporting bandages, and many of love, her tail produced a little wag, indicating her life-loving enthusiasm.
This story of courage and resilience is an uplifting reminder of the strength of the human spirit. It is a monument to the power of kindness and compassion, and how even the tiniest acts of kindness can make a difference in someone’s life.
The little girl’s story is a reminder of the necessity of being prepared for medical crises. It is crucial to have a first aid kit on available and to know how to utilize it. It is also important to know how to spot the signals of a medical emergency and to ask for aid if required.
It is also important to be aware of the risks associated with specific activity. For example, if a child is playing outside, it is important to make sure they are wearing protective clothing and that they are monitored. It is also important to be aware of the potential for injuries and to take actions to prevent them.
Lastly, it is important to remember that even in the most terrible of situations, there is always hope. This little girl’s story is a reminder that even in the face of misfortune, there is always the potential for resilience and courage.
It is a reminder that even at the worst of circumstances, there is still the potential for kindness and compassion.
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