Mice: The Unlikely First Responders

Ever wondered if animals can help each other out in a crisis? Well, mice can. They have a unique way of caring for their friends. When a mouse finds another mouse unconscious, it doesn't just walk away. Instead, it tries to revive its companion. How? By licking and biting the face of the unconscious mouse. It's like a tiny, furry first responder. This behavior isn't just about licking. Mice also pull at their companion's mouth or tongue. The more time they spend together, the more aggressive these actions become. This helps the unconscious mouse recover faster. It's like they have a secret language of care. Mice can sense when their friend is in trouble, even without seeing them. They use their other senses to figure out that something's wrong. This isn't just a random behavior. It's a response to a specific need. When the unconscious mouse wakes up, the first-aider mouse stops its actions. It's like they know exactly what they're doing. But why do they do it? Is it instinct or something more? Scientists aren't sure. They think it might be an instinct that's evolved over time. It's like a built-in first-aid kit in their tiny brains. There's more to this story. Scientists found that a hormone called oxytocin plays a big role. This hormone is known for social bonding and trust. When oxytocin is released, it triggers the mice to help their friends. It's like their bodies are wired to care for each other. This isn't the only time animals have shown they care for each other. Dolphins, elephants, and other primates do it too. They touch, groom, and even strike each other to help. But the way mice do it is unique. They use specific actions like tongue pulling and biting. This shows that even small creatures have complex ways of caring for each other. So, next time you see a mouse, remember, it's not just a tiny creature. It's a first responder with a big heart. It's a reminder that caring for others isn't just a human thing. It's something that's wired into many animals.