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.
“Unleashing the Power of Compassion: How One Man Rescued a Stray Husky and Witnessed Her Incredible Transformation”
While on his way home from work, Rico Soegiarto witnessed a heartbreaking scene on the streets of Denpasar, Bali – a dog that was partially buried in the road. This poor creature was in dire straits, suffering from severe malnourishment, covered in wounds and completely hairless.
Despite being a Siberian Husky, the dog was in such a sad state that it was difficult to recognize her breed. However, Rico’s compassion knew no bounds, and he was determined to rescue her. Although Rico already had four rescue dogs waiting for him at home, he felt an instant connection when he looked into the suffering pup’s eyes. He named her Hope, inspired by the glimmer of optimism in her bright blue eyes, even in the midst of her deplorable condition.
Without hesitation, Rico swiftly took in Hope and welcomed her into his home, initiating the beginning of her miraculous recovery journey. He aided her in regrowing her fur by giving her soothing medicated baths and providing her with plenty of nutritious food. Nursing Hope back to health was a labor of love, a task that Rico approached with unwavering dedication.
As time went by, Hope’s remarkable transformation became increasingly evident. Her newfound confidence shone through as her once-bare skin was now covered in a lush coat of fur. She was unrecognizable once again, but this time, it was a testament to her incredible revival.
A year later, Hope’s metamorphosis was nothing short of extraordinary. She had transformed into a stunning, disease-free Husky, radiating with life and vitality. Rico not only rescued her from the brink but also decided to make her a cherished member of his family.
Currently, Hope is residing in Bali with Rico and his loved ones, relishing her “second chance” at life which is now filled with happiness and affection. Rico’s act of kindness and commitment has not only granted Hope a new lease on life but also showcased the deep bond that can exist between humans and their four-legged companions.
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