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.
From Emaciated to Energetic: The Miraculous Makeover of a Neglected Roadside Pooch
Meet Florcita, a brave young girl whose story is a testament to the kindness of humanity and the indomitable spirit of the innocent. Despite facing unimaginable adversity, she has emerged stronger and more resilient than ever before.
Let me tell you a tale of both despair and hope that highlights the devastating aftermath of neglect and the valiant fight to save one life. Florcita’s rescue occurred in surroundings that would make any animal lover weep. She was denied sustenance and water and discovered in a state of immense agony. The extent of her injuries became evident when medical examinations disclosed an alarming truth: her blood sugar and white blood cell counts were alarmingly low, while her liver enzymes had reached dangerously high levels.
The rescue team acted swiftly to save Florcita’s life as her critical condition worsened with each passing day. She was struggling to breathe, and dehydration caused the veins to rupture. She also had severe diarrhea infested with parasites that made her condition worse. Onlookers could only empathize with the caretakers as they watched Florcita suffer.
Despite everything, there was a glimmer of hope when Florcita managed to eat some hand-shredded chicken. However, she was too weak to even open her mouth. Her situation remained perilous as her kidneys began to fail, and her body temperature kept dropping. The caretakers prayed for a miracle to give Florcita strength and help her 7kg body survive.
Despite the tireless efforts made to save Florcita, the outcome was devastating. Her body could not fight any longer, leaving her supporters heartbroken. The news of her passing spread like wildfire, affecting all those who had followed her journey. She has become a symbol of vulnerability and loss, forever remembered by those who hoped for her triumph.
Florcita’s tragic end highlights the need for compassion, responsible pet ownership, and the protection of innocent lives. It reveals the harsh reality of neglect and abuse on the weakest members of our society. The collective grief felt by her supporters emphasizes the profound impact that such stories can have on our consciousness.
Florcita’s story is a call to action, urging us to rise above apathy and indifference. We must take measures to prevent further instances of suffering and extend love and kindness to every living creature. Awareness and education are vital in fostering a world where tales like Florcita’s are replaced with stories of resilience, healing, and hope.
As we say goodbye to Florcita, we hold onto the hope that her spirit will live on. Let her memory be a catalyst for change, inspiring people to have compassion and a strong commitment to protecting and valuing animal lives. May she find peace in eternity and always be remembered as a symbol of the fight for a world where all beings can thrive without harm or suffering. Fly high, Florcita, like time itself. Let her memory be renewed each spring, reminding us of our responsibility to nurture and safeguard all living creatures. Please show your support by liking and sharing this story with your loved ones. You are encouraged to share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below. Your involvement is vital in raising awareness and promoting change.
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