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.
“A Cop’s Compassion: Abandoned Dog’s Tearful Plea Earns a Forever Home”
In the quiet solitude of a deserted street, a small puppy sat forlorn and motionless, embodying a sense of despair that tugged at the heartstrings of anyone who chanced upon its gaze. Tear-filled eyes spoke volumes of the dog’s plight, abandoned and forgotten, left with nowhere to call home. With a heart heavy with desolation, the dog’s only glimmer of hope was to approach a nearby police base, a silent plea for assistance echoing in its every step.
The dog’s destiny hung in the balance, unsure if anyone would heed its silent cries. Yet, propelled by necessity, the pup summoned its courage and approached the door of the police base. As fate would have it, a compassionate policeman stood close by, his attention drawn to the faint knocking. Opening the door, he was met with a heart-rending sight: a little dog, its eyes filled with a poignant mixture of vulnerability and supplication. In that instant, the policeman’s heart melted, swayed by the dog’s touching plea for help. Gently, he inquired, “What brings you here, little one?” In response, the dog mustered a tentative wag of its tail, eyes gleaming with a glimmer of hope. With resolve solidified, the officer scooped up the trembling pup, ushering it into the safety of the police base.
From that moment on, a transformation took place — one that would shape the destiny of both the dog and its newfound protector. The puppy found itself embraced by the warm embrace of the police base, quickly endearing itself to the officers within. Its loyalty and affection became apparent, igniting a genuine bond that resonated throughout the base’s corridors. The dog’s presence became a source of solace and camaraderie, a reminder of the remarkable ability of animals to forge connections that transcend words.
With each passing day, the dog’s life underwent a remarkable metamorphosis. It was given a new name: Lucky, embodying the newfound fortune that had smiled upon it. Lucky’s once desolate existence now blossomed into a life brimming with love, care, and companionship. It proved itself as a faithful and devoted companion, a steadfast friend to those who had taken it in.
Lucky’s story is a testament to the power of compassion and the profound impact that even a small gesture of kindness can have on a life. It serves as a reminder that amid the challenges of the world, there is always room for humanity to shine through. The bond between Lucky and the police officers is a symbol of the unwavering devotion that animals bring into our lives, and the reciprocal love that can flourish when we extend a helping hand.
In conclusion, the heartwarming tale of Lucky, the abandoned dog who found solace within the embrace of a police base, resonates as a testament to the resilience of animals and the boundless capacity of humans to show compassion. Lucky’s journey from despair to hope serves as an inspiration, underscoring the importance of extending empathy to the voiceless and reminding us that every act of kindness creates ripples of positivity that enrich lives in unimaginable ways.
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