Compassion: Understanding Animal Grief

By Katherine Wood | Published on  

Tahlequah’s Grief: A Powerful Story of an Orca’s Extraordinary Mourning

As I delve into the captivating world of animal emotions, one tale stands out among the rest—a story of immense grief displayed by an orca named Tahlequah. Her remarkable journey touched the hearts of people worldwide, shedding light on the depths of animals’ emotional lives.

Tahlequah, also known as J35, swam alongside the J Pod in the Salish Sea, which lies off the coasts of British Columbia and Washington State. In July 2018, scientists eagerly anticipated the birth of Tahlequah’s calf, as no baby had survived in her pod for three long years. Orcas, often called killer whales, are not only profoundly social but also highly intelligent beings. Their complex social networks involve the sharing of habits, information, and even affection, creating a true culture of the ocean.

However, this particular pod faced grave challenges. The decline of the Chinook salmon, their favored food source, and increasing pollution had taken a toll on their well-being. Despite these difficulties, on July 24th, Tahlequah gave birth to a daughter, bringing hope to the scientific community. Regrettably, tragedy struck shortly after the birth, and the calf passed away.

What happened next was nothing short of extraordinary. Tahlequah refused to let her baby slip away into the water. She kept the lifeless calf close, swimming with it, and diving to rescue it whenever it fell off her body, battling against the relentless currents. For an astonishing 17 days, Tahlequah embarked on a poignant journey, covering over 1,000 miles, clinging onto her precious offspring. Eventually, she mustered the courage to let go, allowing the tiny body to slip gently into the water.

The intensity of Tahlequah’s grief remains etched in my memory. Yes, “grief” is the word that best describes what I witnessed. It is the visible cues, the behavioral expressions, that reveal an animal’s emotional state. Over the past seven years, I have dedicated myself to documenting instances of animal grief, observing it in birds, mammals, domesticated animals, and creatures in the wild. Through these experiences, I have come to firmly believe in the reality of animal grief.

Now, I must address the concept of anthropomorphism, the act of projecting human emotions and capacities onto other animals. While skepticism surrounds claims such as “my cat understands everything I say” or “my dog just wants to play,” animal grief is distinct. We are not attempting to read an animal’s mind; instead, we analyze their visible behaviors and interpret them with empathy and meaning.

Yet, not all scientists share this perspective, and the “a-word,” anthropomorphism, often acts as a deterrent to recognizing animal emotions. However, focusing solely on anthropomorphism overlooks a crucial point—that animals are capable of deep care, affection, and even love for one another. When faced with loss, their hearts, too, can be pierced by grief.

To deepen our understanding, let me recount a story from Kenya involving elephants named Eleanor, Grace, and Maui. Eleanor, battling bruised legs, collapsed with Grace rushing to her aid. Distressed, Grace prodded the body and vocalized as Eleanor’s health deteriorated. After Eleanor’s passing, Maui arrived, standing vigil and rocking in distress over the lifeless form. Observing the elephants’ behavior over seven days, I couldn’t help but classify their actions as expressions of grief.

So, what does grief look like in the animal kingdom? It manifests in various ways—rocking in distress, social withdrawal, changes in eating and sleeping patterns, and even

Exploring the depths of animal emotions, I find myself captivated by the undeniable reality of animal grief. Through careful observation of visible cues and the interpretation of their behavior, we can begin to comprehend the profound emotional experiences of our fellow creatures.

While not all scientists agree with this perspective, citing the concept of anthropomorphism as a significant deterrent, I firmly believe that animal grief is distinct and worthy of recognition. Anthropomorphism refers to the projection of human emotions and capacities onto other animals, and while we must approach this topic with caution, we cannot dismiss the observable behaviors that indicate an animal’s emotional state.

For the past seven years, I have dedicated myself to documenting instances of animal grief, delving into the lives of birds, mammals, domesticated animals, and those in the wild. By analyzing their behavioral cues, we can see meaningful insights into their emotional experiences.

It is essential to acknowledge that animals, like us, form deep connections and care for one another. They exhibit behaviors that reveal their capacity for affection and love. When these bonds are severed by death, a survivor’s heart can be pierced by the profound grief that follows.

To illustrate this, let me share a remarkable example from Kenya. In this story, elephants named Eleanor, Grace, and Maui play central roles. Eleanor, suffering from bruised legs, collapsed, prompting Grace to rush to her aid. Distressed by her companion’s deteriorating health, Grace prodded the body and vocalized her anguish. After Eleanor’s passing, Maui arrived, maintaining a vigilant presence and expressing her distress through rocking motions. This touching display of grief was unmistakable.

But what does grief truly look like in the animal kingdom? It manifests in a multitude of ways. Some animals rock in distress, others withdraw socially, experience changes in their eating and sleeping patterns, or exhibit a depressed posture and vocalizations that reflect their inner turmoil. To bolster our understanding, it is crucial to compare an animal’s behavior before and after the loss, as this enhances the rigor of our interpretation.

While scientific analysis often challenges the existence of animal grief, attributing observed behaviors to stress or disruptions in routine, I believe this focus on anthropomorphism overlooks a fundamental truth. Animals can care deeply for one another, experiencing profound loss and sorrow. By denying the existence of such emotions, we miss out on hugging an integral part of our own shared evolutionary journey.

Although animals may not grieve in the same way we do, expressing their emotions through the richness of human creativity, such as painting or writing, their grief is real and searing in its intensity. When we choose to acknowledge and recognize their grief, we open ourselves up to a world of empathy and compassion.

Personally, I have experienced profound loss in my own life—the passing of both my parents and a dear friend at a young age due to AIDS. Knowing that we are not the only beings on this Earth who feel love and grief has provided me with solace and comfort.

More importantly, recognizing the reality of animal grief can inspire us to be better, to do better for our fellow creatures. The story of Tahlequah, the grieving orca, serves as a poignant example. Her heartfelt mourning for her lost calf prompted renewed discussions and urgent actions to aid the struggling orca population, restore their food sources, and address water pollution.

As we broaden our understanding of animal emotions, we must also consider the wider spectrum of their experiences—joy, sadness, hope, and more. By doing so, we can rethink our relationship with animals and redefine our responsibilities towards them.

For instance, when we witness orca grief, we realize the cruelty of confining these magnificent creatures to small tanks in

Let me share with you some poignant examples that demonstrate the profound depth of animal grief. From elephants to ducks, these stories reveal the raw emotions that course through the animal kingdom.

One tale that touches deeply is that of Eleanor, Grace, and Maui, three elephants in Kenya. When Eleanor faced ailing legs, Grace rushed to her side, using her trunk to prop her up and offer support. Unfortunately, Eleanor collapsed again and again, causing visible distress in her companion, Grace. After Eleanor’s passing, Maui arrived, staying by her side, rocking in anguish over the lifeless body. This procession of grief was not isolated; scientists observed a parade of elephants from various families who came to pay their respects during the following seven days.

But elephants aren’t the only creatures who mourn the loss of their companions. Consider the heart-wrenching story of Harper and Kohl, two ducks who formed a strong bond after enduring cruelty at a foie gras factory. Rescued by a farm sanctuary, they became fast friends for four years. When Kohl’s legs became unbearable with pain, the sanctuary made the difficult decision to euthanize him. In a compassionate act, they brought Harper to see his lifeless body. Initially, Harper prodded his friend’s body before eventually lying over it for more than an hour. In the weeks that followed, Harper struggled, seeking solace at the pond they had frequented together. Tragically, within two months, Harper passed away as well, unable to bear the weight of his grief.

These stories are not isolated incidents but rather glimpses into a world of animal grief that spans across species. Grief takes on various forms, from rocking in distress and social withdrawal to changes in eating and sleeping patterns. Animals exhibit these behaviors, providing visible cues of their emotional turmoil. By comparing an animal’s behavior before and after the loss, we can glean greater insights into the profound impact of grief upon their lives.

Some skeptics may attribute these behaviors to stress or disruptions in routine, but I firmly believe that such explanations miss the fundamental point. Animals are capable of deep care, affection, and love for one another. When a loved one passes, their hearts ache with sorrow, just like ours.

Scientific research goes beyond mere observations. For instance, in Botswana, scientists took fecal samples from baboons to analyze hormonal levels and their response to bereavement. The stress hormones in females who lost someone in a predator attack were significantly elevated compared to those who witnessed an attack but did not lose a companion. These bereaved baboons exhibited visible behavioral changes, such as social withdrawal and prolonged periods of distress, further reinforcing the reality of animal grief.

While grief’s reach extends across various species, it’s important to note that not all animals mourn in the same way. Their capacity for grief may be influenced by individual circumstances and personalities. For instance, a dog who doesn’t exhibit signs of grief after the loss of another pet doesn’t necessarily indicate a lack of emotional depth. The dynamics of the household, the dog’s relationship with the deceased animal, and other factors play a role in their response to loss.

Understanding animal grief is a powerful reminder that our fellow beings on this planet experience a rich tapestry of emotions. Although their expressions of grief may differ from ours, we should not discount the intensity of their experiences. We possess a unique opportunity to empathize with and learn from these emotions.

By acknowledging the reality of animal grief, we can foster a kinder, gentler world for animals. The stories of Tahlequah, the grieving orca, and countless other examples have prompted renewed efforts to protect and preserve these sentient creatures. They

Understanding and acknowledging animal grief can be a complex task, often hindered by the challenges posed by anthropomorphism. Let’s explore this concept and delve into how we can navigate these obstacles to truly recognize and honor the emotional experiences of animals.

Anthropomorphism, the act of attributing human emotions and capacities to animals, has long been a point of contention in the scientific community. Skepticism arises when claims such as “my cat understands everything I say” or “my dog wants to play” are made. It is crucial to approach this subject with care, avoiding unwarranted assumptions about animal behavior.

However, when it comes to grief, a different lens is required. We must look beyond trying to read an animal’s mind and focus instead on the visible cues they provide through their behavior. Grief is not a product of projecting human emotions onto animals but rather a genuine emotional response that can be observed and interpreted with empathy and sensitivity.

Critics of recognizing animal grief often suggest alternative explanations, such as stress or disruption in routine, to dismiss the validity of these emotions. While these factors may play a role in an animal’s behavior, it is essential not to overlook the fundamental truth that animals can care deeply for one another. Their capacity for affection and love extends beyond mere survival instincts.

As we explore the reality of animal grief, it is vital to strike a balance. We must resist the temptation to anthropomorphize every aspect of their lives while acknowledging the distinct emotional experiences they possess. Animals may not grieve in the same way we do, but that does not diminish the authenticity of their grief.

By recognizing animal grief, we tap into a deeper understanding of their emotional lives. We gain insights into the complexities of their relationships and the impact of loss on their well-being. This knowledge fosters empathy and compassion, driving us to create a kinder and more compassionate world for all creatures.

Overcoming the challenges of anthropomorphism requires a nuanced perspective. It demands that we approach animal emotions with an open mind and a willingness to carefully observe their behaviors. By relying on scientific evidence and studying the visible cues of grief, we can distinguish between projecting our own emotions onto animals and recognizing the authentic expressions of their grief.

As we navigate this complex terrain, we must remain aware that animals experience and express emotions in ways unique to their species. They do not possess human creativity, such as painting or writing, to convey their grief. Nevertheless, their grief is real, searing, and deserving of our attention and understanding.

Recognizing animal grief is not only an intellectual pursuit but also a moral imperative. By acknowledging their capacity for deep emotional connections and the pain that accompanies loss, we can advocate for a world that respects and protects the well-being of animals. It opens doors for improved welfare, conservation efforts, and greater empathy towards all living beings.

Together, let us hug the challenge of recognizing animal grief and work towards a future where animals are understood, valued, and treated with the compassion they deserve.

One of the most remarkable aspects of the animal kingdom is the profound bond animals form with one another. They are not merely driven by instinct or survival but are capable of caring deeply and even loving one another. Let’s delve into the captivating world of animal relationships and explore the depth of their emotions.

From elephants who mourn their fallen companions to ducks who form lifelong friendships, these stories light up the remarkable connections animals forge. Their capacity for affection and love goes beyond mere biological necessity—it is an intrinsic part of their social fabric.

Take, for example, the heart-wrenching tale of Harper and Kohl, two ducks who endured cruelty at a foie gras factory. Rescued and brought to a sanctuary, they became fast friends, finding solace in each other’s company. Over the course of four years, they shared a profound bond, often venturing to a small pond together. However, when Kohl’s leg pain became unbearable, the sanctuary made the difficult decision to euthanize him. In an act of compassion, they allowed Harper to bid farewell to his friend’s lifeless body. Harper’s response was nothing short of extraordinary—he prodded Kohl’s body, then laid himself over it, remaining there for over an hour, as if trying to hold on to the cherished memories they shared. The depth of grief displayed by Harper was a poignant reminder of the strength of their bond.

These examples extend beyond ducks and elephants. Countless species exhibit remarkable displays of care and affection towards their fellow beings. Monkeys and apes, our closest living relatives, form intricate social networks and show genuine concern for one another’s well-being. They engage in behaviors that reveal their capacity for empathy and compassion, fostering a sense of connection within their communities.

Acknowledging the profound bond that animals share challenges us to reevaluate our perception of their emotional lives. It urges us to recognize that they, too, experience love, affection, and the pain of loss. It reminds us that the tapestry of emotions woven within the animal kingdom is as diverse and intricate as our own.

While these bonds may not mirror human relationships in every aspect, their depth and significance are undeniable. Animals do not possess the ability to articulate their emotions through human means such as painting or writing, but their expressions of care and grief are tangible and meaningful nonetheless.

Understanding and honoring these connections can profoundly impact the way we interact with animals. It compels us to respect and protect their well-being, to create environments where they can thrive and experience the full range of their emotional lives. It prompts us to advocate for the preservation of their habitats, the cessation of practices that exploit and harm them, and the establishment of compassionate policies that prioritize their welfare.

As we sort out the complexities of animal emotions, we gain insights into the shared threads that unite all living beings. We begin to grasp the depth of their experiences, growing a sense of empathy and kinship that transcends species boundaries.

So, let us celebrate the profound bond that animals share, marvel at their capacity to care deeply for one another, and strive to create a world that respects and cherishes the intricate tapestry of emotions woven within the animal kingdom.

When it comes to grief, animals, much like us, exhibit a range of behaviors that provide visible cues of their emotional state. Let’s explore how grief manifests in the animal kingdom, from rocking motions to social withdrawal and beyond.

Grief takes on various forms, and one common expression is rocking. Animals experiencing deep sorrow may engage in repetitive rocking motions as a way to cope with their emotional distress. This behavior is particularly evident in elephants, who sway back and forth in mourning, a powerful testament to their profound grief.

Another sign of grief is social withdrawal. Just as humans may isolate themselves while mourning the loss of a loved one, animals also seek solitude during periods of intense grief. They may retreat from their social groups, choosing to spend time alone as they process their emotions. This withdrawal allows them to navigate their grief in their own way and at their own pace.

Furthermore, changes in eating and sleeping patterns often accompany grief in animals. Just as we may lose our appetite or struggle with insomnia when grieving, animals may exhibit similar disruptions in their daily routines. These alterations in basic bodily functions highlight the depth of their emotional turmoil and the impact it has on their overall well-being.

In some cases, animals may adopt a depressed posture or vocalize their distress as a response to grief. These visible cues provide insights into their emotional state, allowing us to witness their sorrow firsthand. Through careful observation, we can recognize these behaviors as reflections of their grief and acknowledge the depth of their emotional experiences.

To better understand the intricacies of animal grief, it is essential to compare an animal’s behavior before and after the loss of a companion. This approach enables us to distinguish between normal stressors and the specific responses triggered by grief. By observing these distinctive changes, we enhance the validity and accuracy of our interpretations.

While skeptics may attribute these behaviors to factors other than grief, such as stress or disruption in routine, we must recognize that these explanations often fall short. Animals possess a capacity for deep care and affection for one another, and the loss of a loved one profoundly impacts their lives. To dismiss their grief as mere stress or confusion oversimplifies the complex emotional landscape of animals.

Understanding how grief manifests in the animal kingdom prompts us to approach their experiences with empathy and compassion. It reinforces the importance of acknowledging their emotional lives and treating them with the respect they deserve.

As we expand our knowledge of animal grief, it becomes increasingly clear that their emotional experiences are not so different from our own. While they may express grief in unique ways and lack the creative outlets available to humans, their emotions are undeniably real and deserving of recognition.

By recognizing and honoring the manifestations of grief in animals, we can foster a greater understanding of their emotional complexity. This understanding serves as a catalyst for positive change, spurring us to create a world that respects and safeguards the well-being of all creatures.

Together, let us continue to explore the multifaceted nature of animal grief, revealing the hidden depths of their emotional lives and working towards a future where empathy and compassion guide our interactions with the remarkable beings who share this planet with us.

Scientific research offers valuable insights into the reality of animal grief, shedding light on the profound emotional experiences that extend beyond our human realm. By delving into the realm of hormonal analysis and observing bereaved baboons, we reveal compelling evidence of grief in the animal kingdom.

To better understand the physiological aspects of grief, scientists have turned to hormonal analysis as a means of measuring an animal’s stress response during times of loss. In one notable study conducted in Botswana, researchers collected fecal samples from baboons who had witnessed a predator attack resulting in the loss of a companion, as well as from baboons who had experienced a similar attack but had not suffered a personal loss. The results were striking: the stress hormones in the first group, aptly named the “bereaved baboons,” were found to be significantly elevated compared to their non-bereaved counterparts.

However, it is not solely the hormonal analysis that supports the existence of grief in animals. It is the collective observations made by scientists that truly light up the depth of their emotions. Take, for instance, the story of a mother-daughter baboon pair who shared a strong bond. Tragically, the daughter fell victim to a lion attack, leaving the mother devastated by the loss. In the wake of this tragedy, the grieving mother removed herself from her usual social networks, withdrawing into seclusion for weeks on end. This behavior, unmistakably indicative of bereavement, eventually gave way to a slow recovery as she gradually reintegrated herself into her baboon community.

These examples highlight the complexity of grief in the animal kingdom. It is not a mere projection of human emotions onto animals; rather, it is an inherent aspect of their lives, as deeply ingrained as any other survival mechanism or social behavior.

While scientific evidence of grief is compelling, it is important to note that not all species may exhibit grief in the same way. The capacity for grief and the behavioral manifestations it takes may vary depending on the specific circumstances and social dynamics within a species. This diversity underscores the importance of observing and understanding grief within the context of each individual animal group.

The scientific exploration of grief opens doors to a deeper understanding of the emotional lives of animals and prompts us to extend empathy and compassion towards their experiences. It challenges us to recognize the intricacies of their emotional landscapes and broadens our perspective on the interconnectedness of all living beings.

As we continue to sort out the scientific evidence surrounding animal grief, it becomes increasingly clear that their emotional experiences are not inconsequential or insignificant. Rather, they provide us with profound insights into the depth and richness of the lives of our fellow creatures.

By acknowledging the reality of animal grief, we can grow a greater sense of empathy and appreciation for the complex emotional tapestry that connects us all. It is through this understanding that we can forge a path towards a more compassionate and inclusive world, one where the emotions and well-being of all beings are valued and respected.

In a world filled with diverse and wondrous creatures, it is incumbent upon us to recognize and honor the reality of animal grief. Through understanding their emotions and experiences, we have the power to shape a kinder and more compassionate world for all beings.

The stories shared thus far, from Tahlequah the orca’s extraordinary mourning to the elephants, ducks, and baboons navigating the depths of grief, serve as powerful reminders of the intricate emotional lives of animals. These narratives compel us to empathize and extend our compassion beyond the boundaries of our own species.

Acknowledging animal grief is not merely an exercise in sentimentality, but a moral imperative. By recognizing the depth of their emotional experiences, we can advocate for their well-being and work towards fostering a world where animals are treated with kindness and respect.

The significance of empathy extends beyond individual animals to entire species and ecosystems. When we understand the emotions and connections that exist between animals, we are better equipped to protect their habitats and preserve the delicate balance of our natural world. By restoring harmony to ecosystems, we can ensure that future generations of animals can thrive in an environment free from human-induced harm.

Recognizing animal grief also challenges us to reevaluate our relationship with animals kept in captivity. Whether it be orcas confined to small tanks in theme parks or monkeys subjected to invasive biomedical experiments, we must confront the ethical implications of exploiting animals for our entertainment or scientific gain. Through empathy and understanding, we can push for the end of such practices and demand better treatment for our fellow beings.

Every choice we make has an impact. By opting for plant-based meals, we contribute to reducing the suffering endured by animals in factory farms. We have the power to create a more compassionate food system that respects the lives and dignity of all living beings.

As we navigate the complexities of animal grief, it is crucial to approach the topic with open hearts and open minds. While animals may not express grief in the same way we do, their emotions are undeniably real and worthy of our recognition. By appreciating their unique ways of experiencing and expressing grief, we broaden our own capacity for empathy and deepen our connection with the natural world.

Together, let us heed the call for empathy and compassion. By acknowledging and honoring animal grief, we take an important step towards creating a kinder world, not just for animals but for ourselves as well. Let us work hand in hand to protect and cherish the incredible diversity of life on our planet, ensuring that the emotional well-being of all beings is valued, respected, and safeguarded.

The profound experiences of animal grief revealed through stories and scientific research remind us of the interconnectedness of all living beings. As we delve into the intricate emotional lives of animals, it becomes clear that their capacity for love, loss, and grief is not confined to our human existence alone.

By recognizing and acknowledging animal grief, we embark on a transformative journey. It is a journey that fosters empathy, compassion, and a deep appreciation for the beauty and diversity of life on our planet. We are called to honor the bonds animals form, to respect their individual experiences, and to advocate for a world where their emotional well-being is valued and protected.

Our understanding of animal grief extends beyond sentimentality—it is grounded in scientific evidence and observable behaviors. By overcoming the challenges of anthropomorphism and hugging a nuanced perspective, we can navigate the complexities of animal emotions with empathy and respect.

In doing so, we open the door to a future where animals are not seen as objects or commodities but as sentient beings deserving of compassion and consideration. We have the power to create a world where orcas swim freely in their ocean homes, where elephants roam without fear, and where all animals are granted the dignity they deserve.

Let us take the lessons learned from animal grief and apply them to our everyday choices. Through mindful decisions, such as adopting plant-based diets and advocating for the protection of habitats, we contribute to a world that is kinder, gentler, and more harmonious for animals and ourselves.

Together, we can create a future where empathy transcends species boundaries, where the realities of animal grief are hugged, and where the well-being of all beings is cherished. Let us forge ahead with open hearts and open minds, knowing that our efforts to understand and honor animal grief are essential steps towards building a more compassionate and inclusive world for all.