A new study has revealed an unexpected friendship between crocodiles and dogs.
A recent report he published Journal of Endangered Taxa observed the behavior of swamp crocodiles (also known as robbers) in Maharashtra, India.
“Although crocodilians are generally stereotyped as lethargic and devoid of social interactions other than territoriality, parental care and ambushing, they exhibit a discrete repertoire of behaviors in a variety of situations that suggest sophisticated cognition,” the scientists explain in an abstract of the report.
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One case included in the report was that of a young dog that was helped by three adult crocodiles after it “went outside its territory”. The dog attracted the attention of three adult crocodiles as they tried to find shelter in the deep waters of the Savitri River.
“At that time, three adult robbers were clearly seen floating nearby in the water and their attention was drawn to this dog and they approached the dog,” the scientists explain. Instead of attacking the animal, the crocodiles reportedly “led” the dog to safety.
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While the scientists aren’t sure why the crocodiles decided to help the pup instead of attacking it, they add that the crocodiles “were actually touching the dog with their snouts and nudging it to move further for a safe climb to shore and eventually escape.”
The study explains that the case demonstrates “emotional behavior by marauders that results in ’emotional empathy’ across species.” The scientists add that this behavior has not been “extensively investigated” and deserves recognition.
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“Crocodiles (crocodiles, alligators, caimans and gharials) are arguably the most cognitively complex living non-avian reptiles,” they wrote. “They display a rich repertoire of behaviors in different contexts; such as hunting, spatial orientation and social interactions, including communication in several modalities.”
Swamp crocodiles are found across India, Sri Lanka, Pakistan and Nepal, according to the Wildlife Institute of India. An adult male can reach a length of up to 4.5 meters (18 feet) and weigh 450 kg (1,000 pounds), the institute notes.
Categories: Trends
Source: HIS Education