The reasons why wild animals experience natural highs – National Geographic

In the animal kingdom, there are some species that have been observed to seek out and consume substances that alter their mental state, leading to what can be described as natural highs. These behaviors have been documented in various animals, from elephants getting drunk on fermented fruits to dolphins using pufferfish toxins for recreational purposes. While these behaviors may seem unusual to us, they serve important purposes in the lives of these wild creatures.

One of the most well-known examples of animals seeking out natural highs is the case of elephants in Africa getting drunk on fermented marula fruits. These fruits fall from the marula tree and ferment on the ground, creating an alcoholic beverage that the elephants find irresistible. They have been observed to eat large quantities of these fermented fruits, leading to behaviors such as stumbling and swaying, similar to humans under the influence of alcohol. While this behavior may seem amusing, it actually serves a purpose for the elephants. The fermented fruits provide essential nutrients and calories that help them survive during times of food scarcity.

Another fascinating example of animals experiencing natural highs is dolphins using pufferfish toxins for recreational purposes. Pufferfish produce a potent neurotoxin called tetrodotoxin, which is deadly in high doses. However, dolphins have been observed to gently play with pufferfish, seemingly milking them for small amounts of the toxin. The dolphins then pass the pufferfish around, seemingly getting high from the effects of the toxin. This behavior has been described as a form of recreational drug use among dolphins, providing them with a unique and potentially pleasurable experience.

These examples highlight the complex and sometimes surprising behaviors of wild animals when it comes to seeking out natural highs. While these behaviors may seem risky or even dangerous to us, they serve important purposes in the lives of these animals. From providing essential nutrients during times of scarcity to experiencing pleasure and social bonding, seeking out natural highs is just another way that animals adapt and thrive in their environments.

In conclusion, the phenomenon of wild animals experiencing natural highs is a fascinating and often misunderstood aspect of animal behavior. From elephants getting drunk on fermented fruits to dolphins using pufferfish toxins for recreational purposes, these behaviors serve important functions in the lives of these creatures. By studying and understanding these behaviors, we can gain a deeper appreciation for the complexity and diversity of the animal kingdom.