Myth: Animals Don’t Die by Suicide
They don’t die by suicide, because suicide requires intent, and we’ve not demonstrated that animals act with intent. However, self-destruction isn’t uniquely a human condition. We know that animals behave in ways that they can expect will lead to their death.
Fact: Several Species Exhibit Suicidal Behaviors
Male praying mantises die post-copulation. They know this is going to happen as a natural result of impregnating the female. Salmon of many varieties have a mechanism that causes them to die after spawning as well. Several species of animal expect and even hasten death post-copulation. This is a natural part of the animal’s life cycle.
There is also evidence that animals will separate from the protection of their group based on illness or injury. Though the specifics vary by animal, it appears that there are biological processes that cause animals to increase their vulnerability to protect their group.
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Evidence
Many animals act in ways that lead to their own death.
In Support of the Myth
None identified.
To Refute the Myth
The male of the species know that they may (or are likely to) die as a result of an encounter, thus making it a form of suicide.
“Pituitary Degeneration and Adrenal Tissue Hyperplasia in Spawning Pacific Salmon” (1957)
Salmon appear to have a programed die-off after spawning.
“The impact of providing hiding spaces to farmed animals: A scoping review” (2022)
Coverage of reasons for hiding – or separating from the group.
Unclear or Mixed Support
None identified.
Learn more about suicide myths – and the truths behind them – by following the links below.