Are Other Animals Aware of Death?

Wildlife scientist believe humans are not the only species that recognize death.

Evidence shows that chimpanzees, elephants, crows/ravens, and jays often hold "vigil" over the body, giving the animals/birds time to recognize the transition from being alive to dead.

This is also very important for humans as well.  This is why the Death Doula community often recommends that loved ones take time to be with their loved one, as it takes quite some time to begin to even process the death, even if it was "expected".

Dolphins often carry the dead calves to the surface of the water, trying in vain to get them to breath.  They may also do this as it might possibly suggest that they are not ready to accept the death.

Elephants gather together.  They nudge the dead.  Does this mean they are trying to wake them up?  Often, we humans try similar actions, such as wake up, please do not die or be dead.

Can we learn from these animals in that taking time and honoring this process can help us in our acknowledging of death?  I think so.

Are Other Animals Aware of Death?