28 Intriguing things to know about the animal kingdom
Beyond the wild, quirky, and awe-inspiring behaviors animals display, there’s a quieter, deeper side to their lives that often goes unnoticed. Animals aren’t merely fascinating creatures—they’re emotional beings who experience struggles and feelings much like we do.
It’s amazing that a cow can detect scents from six miles away, but it’s equally moving to wonder if that same cow feels down on a rainy day or reacts to a somber melody. These gentle realities not only touch our hearts but also draw us closer to the animals we share the planet with, reminding us just how much we have in common.
The Desert Jerboa Loves Dry Shampoo
Desert jerboas are undeniably adorable—and they seem just as concerned about greasy fur as we are. To combat the oiliness, these clever little creatures actually roll around in the dirt.
We have to say, their strategy is pretty smart, and their fur looks fantastic!
Hamsters Wheels Can Cause Back Problems
Hamsters have appeared on our list twice, highlighting just how adorable yet bittersweet their lives can be. Besides missing out on treats like guacamole, they also face health challenges, especially with their spines.
Studies reveal that many hamster wheels are too small, leading to back issues and arthritis. Ouch—that’s a tough price to pay for exercise!
Puffins Are The Clowns Of The Sea
Nobody enjoys getting stuck with a nickname, yet sometimes it’s unavoidable. Puffins—cute and quirky as they are—have been dubbed the “clowns of the sea.”
Perhaps they’d prefer to be recognized for the majestic seabirds they really are.
Cows Love R.E.M.’s “Everybody Hurts”
Scientists actually conducted studies to find out if music could boost milk production in cows—and it seems these cows have quite the musical taste. When they hear R.E.M.’s “Everybody Hurts,” it’s like the milk starts flowing and the emotions pour out alongside it.
Luckily, their emotional ride doesn’t end there. Their runner-up favorite? Simon and Garfunkel’s “Bridge Over Troubled Water.” After feeling the heartache with R.E.M., Simon and Garfunkel step in to soothe and heal. Clearly, cows experience full emotional journeys right in the barn.
Giant Panda’s Will Sleep Anywhere Because They Are Pure And Not Picky
Check out this giant panda snoozing away high up in a tree. Honestly, we could all take a page from their book. These lovable giants can sleep just about anywhere—no fancy setup required. Meanwhile, humans spend ages debating which $2,000 mattress to buy.
Sure, investing in a good mattress makes sense since we spend so much time sleeping. But still, there’s something to be said for embracing the carefree spirit of a giant panda’s nap game.
The Arctic Fox Has An IceBox For A Heart
Arctic Foxes have to embrace the cold no matter what. When it becomes cold outside, a natural defense mechanism is to shiver. An Arctic Fox doesn’t have that privilege.
They don’t shiver until the temperature reaches -70 degrees Celsius. For it to have to be that cold before the fox tries to warm itself must be terrible. We want to cuddle them.
Japanese Snow Monkeys Just Want To Relax
Everyone needs a little rest and relaxation now and then—even Japanese Snow Monkeys. A recent study revealed that these charming primates don’t just soak in hot springs to keep warm—they do it to de-stress.
Researchers found that time spent in the steamy water actually reduces levels of a stress-related metabolite. Turns out, snow monkeys might be the true masters of self-care!
Sand Tiger Shark Battle
When you’re sharing the womb with another shark, things get brutal—especially if you’re a Sand Tiger Shark. These sharks are known for practicing intrauterine cannibalism, meaning they actually eat their siblings before they’re even born.
It’s a fierce competition for survival, and by the time birth rolls around, typically only one shark pup is left. So much for sibling bonding before hitting the open ocean!
Chickens Can Be Scared To Death
There’s a surprising bit of truth behind the old saying—if someone calls you a chicken, it’s not exactly a compliment. Chickens are naturally skittish animals, and their nerves are no joke.
In fact, chickens can literally be scared to death. A sudden shock or loud noise can cause their heart to give out, especially in more fragile breeds. So if you’ve got pet chickens, be gentle with surprises—and if you’re raising them for food, well… just make sure to cook thoroughly!
Roadrunners Cry… A Lot
Biologically, roadrunners shed tears to flush out excess sodium from their bodies—but it’s fun to imagine they might be crying over how misunderstood they’ve been.
For years, the roadrunner’s known as the carefree speedster always outsmarting Wile E. Coyote. But has anyone stopped to think about the emotional toll of being chased nonstop? Maybe that iconic “meep meep” carries a bit more feeling than we give it credit for.
The Life Of A Female Cheetah
Female cheetahs are powerful and incredibly fast. Interestingly, they make a choice that many human women do—whether out of need or desire.
That’s right, female cheetahs opt for a solo lifestyle. Some might assume having a companion would only hold them back, but who are we to question their independence?
Seagulls Are More Of A Wreck Than You Are
Seagulls have earned their reputation as the wild troublemakers of the bird world. Whether it’s shrieking, snatching fries, or startling unsuspecting tourists, causing a scene is their specialty. So it’s only fitting that a group of them is known as a “wreck.”
They don’t just disrupt picnics—they take them over like they own the place. And the best part? They thrive on the chaos. No regrets, no apologies—just pure feathered mischief.
Sugar Is The Only Thing That Destresses Bees
Being a bee isn’t exactly a walk in the park. These little powerhouses are constantly busy—pollinating plants, keeping ecosystems running smoothly, and crafting that delicious golden honey. It’s a high-pressure gig, and like many of us, bees turn to snacks to keep going. Their go-to pick-me-up? Sugar. It’s their primary energy source and gives them the boost they need after a long day of buzzing around.
Basically, it’s their version of flopping on the couch with a jumbo bag of Skittles after a hectic week.
Conures Pull Out Their Feathers When They Are Bored
Conures experience boredom and a longing for attention in much the same way humans do. When they feel neglected or unstimulated, they may begin pulling out their own feathers—one by one—as a desperate attempt to be noticed or to cope with the isolation.
This kind of self-plucking is more than just a bad habit—it’s a clear signal that something’s wrong. These affectionate birds aren’t getting the care they need, and it’s heartbreaking. Conures deserve better!
Dik-Dik Mark Their Territory With Tears
This might be one of the saddest facts yet. Some of you might not have heard of this animal but they are related to deer. And what they do to mark their territory is the sad part.
Dik-Diks set their territory with their tears. To be able to bring up that kind of emotion is hard to do. These animals must go through a lot.
Pudu Deer Have To Fear Owls
A pudu is the world’s smallest deer. Imagine that, deer are already small and fragile so this fact makes you empathize more with the gentle creatures.
Pudu is so small that the Great Horned Owl is one of their predators. When an owl is something that can eat you then you had better be fast.
Monkeys Lose More Friends The Older They Get
Studies have revealed that as monkeys grow older, they tend to withdraw socially and drift away from their friend groups. To top it off, gorillas have been seen sprouting grey hairs with age—just like us.
We’ve always known primates are our closest relatives, but it turns out they go through the same rough aging process too. All that’s missing now is a gorilla trading the jungle for a sports car and a leather jacket.
Zebras Can’t Sleep Alone
This started off as a survival instinct but ended up being surprisingly relatable. Zebras sleep standing up so they can stay alert for predators—but they also sleep in groups to ease stress and anxiety.
Basically, zebras are the emotional support besties of the animal kingdom. Kind of like that friend who can’t sleep after a breakup unless they’re curled up in their ex’s hoodie.
Meerkats Look As Exhausted As A College Student In Exam Time
Meerkats have dark circles around their eyes to prove just how tired they are. In reality, the fur underneath their eyes is a way to deflect sun rays to see better.
It makes sense because they have some pretty busy days. Between sleeping and sunbathing who knows if they get their full eight hours of shut-eye.
Elephants Can’t Jump
Alright, when you think about it, it makes complete sense that elephants came jump. I mean, certain elephants can weigh more than 13,000 pounds. But still, it’s sad just knowing that a sweet elephant can’t do something because we want them to believe in themselves.
While elephants can’t jump, fortunately, it’s okay. Most animals that do jump do so because they need to get away from predators. Elephants keep themselves safe in other ways!
Crows Never Forget A Face
Forgetting your dumb ex’s face can be hard. Well, crows have it even worse. Researchers in Seattle performed an experiment to test whether crows can recognize human faces. Turns out, they can…and they’re really good at it.
While wearing specific masks, the researchers captured seven crows around their college campus, tagged them, and let them go. When the researchers walked around campus while wearing the masks, the tagged crows would drive-bomb towards them. Crows just want to forget.
Bees Are Actually Mostly Solitary
When I think of bees I think of cute little, animated insects who spend their days smiling and making delicious honey. In reality, there are 267 species of bees and about 90 percent of them aren’t social and don’t even live in colonies.
The Bee Movie is a lie.
Squirrels Have Terrible Memories
This might be a reason why squirrels harvest so many nuts. The tiny creature goes through a lifetime constantly plating thousands of trees because they forget where they hid their nuts.
Maybe they don’t have a high enough brain function to remember but this is also a cute fact. It’s only sad because they’ve lost so many precious nuts.
Blue Shark’s Bite Each Other When They’re In Love
Love is pain amirite? Well if you are a shark in love then you better watch out. Things get a little testy when a shark wants to show that he or she cares.
Blue sharks bite each other to show that they like another shark, proving that love hurts.
Drink Up, Moth
This fact is gross and sad. Some moths indulge in the tears of sleeping birds.
Why birds are crying when they sleep is something we won’t discuss but for a moth to enjoy this flavor is sad.
The Truth About Squirrels
If you’ve ever had the chance to examine a squirrel in close proximity then you might have noticed something. A squirrel is constantly doing this one thing.
They need to always chew because their teeth never cease growing. Next you wonder why a squirrel looks like it’s eating it might not be.
Rhinos Wail When They Get Lost
When baby rhinos are scared, they are taught to let out a “wonk” which is just a high-pitched scream. This happens most often when a rhino gets separated from the pack and can’t find their mothers.
It sounds almost as sad and embarrassing as when a kid gets lost in the grocery store and security has to page their parents over the intercom.
The Odds Are Stacked For Bunnies
All bunny owners, prepare yourself. The cute and adorable creatures are not living up to their potential.
The fact is, only one in seven bunnies lives to become an adult. That’s a harsh statistic. It makes you appreciate Bugs Bunny more after seeing the different ways he could have died.
