The More The Merrier
In many ways, animals are just like us. They crave company and social interaction just like we do. But while some animals don't need it all the time, there are some that depend on being with others to survive and function. Here are five of the most social animals on land, each finding peace in being with others of their kind.
1. Gorillas
When you picture gorillas, it's always in a pack, right? Or to be more accurate, a troop! Gorillas are incredibly sociable animals that form complex families and dynamics. Similar to lions, the troop is usually led by one alpha male, but everyone develops strong relationships and looks out for one another.
2. Elephants
Often seen as some of the most intelligent animals around, elephants develop very complex and deep relationships with those around them. Not only do they form unique means of communication, but being in a herd allows them to nurture their calves with ease, thanks to the added protection.
3. Lions
Living in large groups called a pride, lions are the most sociable of the big cat species. These prides are led by one male, followed by several lionesses whose main jobs are looking after the cubs. They don't just nurture the young together, but they also hunt, play, and travel as one, too.
4. Meerkats
As highly social creatures, you'll never spot just one meerkat on its own. Living together in large mobs, this offers them protection not just from predators, but also from other mobs! Meerkats are said to get rather aggressive with others of their own kind, all in attempt to claim dominance.
5. Penguins
Bracing the cold bitterness of Antarctica together, penguins rely on each other not just for warmth, but also for protection, support, and community. They are seen as some of the most social birds in the world, always doing everything in large groups from traveling to hunting and braving the worst weather.
