Behaviors of Non-Human Animals: Cruelty, Survival, and Complexity

When we think of the most cruel behaviors in nature, it often surprises us to learn that some of the most sentient and intelligent animals can exhibit extremely harsh and survival-driven instincts. These natural behaviors are often cruel, yet they serve pivotal roles in the evolution and survival of various species. This article explores some of the most surprising and brutal behaviors of non-human animals, highlighting the complexities and motivations behind such actions.

The Ngogo Chimpanzees: Interspecies Cannibalism

I propose that the Ngogo chimpanzees stand out as one of the most ruthless when it comes to treating their own kind. Although they are non-human, their intelligence and complexity are not far from that of humans, especially in terms of their survival instincts.

These chimpanzees, like many others, are highly intelligent and capable of rational decision-making. However, their cannibalistic tendencies are alarming. When faced with food scarcity, these animals often turn to consuming their own kind or other primates to satiate their hunger. This behavior is not restricted to dire circumstances; the Ngogo chimpanzees can also resort to cannibalism even when they are relatively satiated, showing a stark duality in their behavior. Despite their occasional acts of kindness, their need for survival overrides their usual rationality.

Nature’s Brutality: Instinctive Survival Techniques

It’s important to understand that these behaviors are not premeditated but are instinctive responses to necessity. Animals and insects engage in survival techniques that may appear harsh or even cruel to us. For example, spider females often consume their mate after or during mating to provide instant nutrition for their offspring. This is not an act of malice but a necessary survival mechanism.

The Praying Mantis: A Deadly Mating Ritual

One of the most striking examples of intraspecies cannibalism is the female praying mantis. After mating, she often consumes her mate, starting with his head. This act provides her with immediate nutrition and energy, which is critical for her and her offspring. There is no legal agreement or pre-nuptial pact in the insect world, highlighting nature's brutal and survival-driven behaviors.

The Extreme Cases: Sibling Rivalry and In-utero Cannibalism

While the praying mantis and the Ngogo chimpanzees demonstrate some of the strongest survival instincts, there are even more extreme cases. For instance, in some eagle species, older eaglets may push younger siblings out of the nest to secure more food and resources. This is a brutal form of sibling rivalry that prioritizes personal survival over family unity.

However, the ultimate test of survival-driven behaviors can be found in the underwater world, where several species of sharks engage in cannibalism in the womb. These species of sharks are known to eat their younger siblings before even being born, ensuring the survival of the fittest. I affectionately name this phenomenon 'Sharkane' rivalry, in homage to the biblical story of Cain and Abel.

While these behaviors are uncomfortable to contemplate, they are crucial for the survival and evolution of these species. Understanding these behaviors can help us appreciate the complexity and resilience of nature, even as we grapple with the harsh realities of survival instinct and competition.