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| Rex Steyskal, Baboon Family |
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This is one of my all-time favorite photos; not only does it show a mother's devotion and her child basking in her embrace, but it also shows 'auntie' looking on fondly. And these are baboons, not people. It's commonly said "it takes a village to raise a child." Scientists are finding that some species of animals understand this well.The scientific term for "non-maternal infant care" (Wikipedia) is allomothering and a number of species practice it, particularly mammals and birds. The article "Mothers and Others" gives insight into the challenges ape mothers face in raising their young and includes an anthropological view. Elephants, known for practicing allomothering, have a strong social structure as well.
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| Nairobi123, Herd of elephants in south Kenya, Wikimedia Commons |
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Many birds may be small and easy prey for larger birds and other animals, but they, too have their defenses. Check out this article--"Some Birds Become 'Maiden Aunts' to Defend Relatives' Chicks against Cuckoos"--for more.
According to The Telegraph, honey bees practice consensus for decision-making.
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| Two bees cling to a thistle blossom Photo: AP, The Telegraph |
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And here's an interesting article from Psychology Today: "Can animals work for the common good?"
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