Experiencing the death of a loved one is never easy it brings a heavy sadness that takes time to heal. And guess what? Animals feel this sorrow too! Yes, you read that right. Just like us, animals mourn and grieve for their lost ones.
1. Chimpanzees
When a baby chimp dies, their mother often carries and grieves them for a long time. Chimp families also gather around the deceased, showing signs of mourning like pacing, sniffing, vocalizing, and touching the body.
2. Elephants
Elephants show deep compassion when a member of their group dies. They scatter dirt over the body, remain silent, and cover the deceased with leaves and grass. If the deceased is from their own group, elephants may stay with the body for extended periods, sometimes revisiting the bones years later.
3. Dogs
Mother dogs display mourning behavior when they lose their puppies, often crying and staying close to the body for hours while emitting soft groans. In some cases, mother dogs have been observed burying their dead puppies. Dogs can also mourn the loss of other species or humans.
4. Giraffes
Giraffes are known to bend down and hold “vigils” over their deceased. Some mother giraffes have been seen standing watch over the body of a calf for days before eventually leaving it.
5. Jaybirds
When jaybirds lose a companion, a small group of them gathers around the dead bird, observing and gently pecking at the body. They then bring grass and lay it around the body, staying with it for a short time before leaving.
6. Geese
Geese are known for their lifelong mate partnerships. When grieving, they may stay with the dead body, gently preening its feathers, and even sleeping next to it for hours.
7. Kangaroos
In a touching display of mourning, a male kangaroo was seen trying to lift a dying female kangaroo, but she passed away in his arms. He stayed with her body for hours before finally leaving.
