In a groundbreaking study published in Science, researchers discovered that mice instinctively perform life-saving first aid on unconscious companions, showcasing an innate drive to help others in distress. When a mouse was anesthetized, its companion would lick, paw, and even pull on its tongue to clear the airway, mirroring human first-aid techniques. In cases where a small object was lodged in the unconscious mouse’s mouth, the bystander successfully removed it 80% of the time, significantly improving recovery. These findings highlight the remarkable altruism present in the animal kingdom and suggest that the instinct to assist others in need is deeply ingrained in nature, offering hopeful insights into the evolutionary roots of empathy and cooperation.

Image via The Times UK
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