![Photographs of communal wound licking by (a) an adult female and adult male bison (Bison bison) and (b) an adult male bison, on two different GPS-collared bison in northeastern British Columbia, Canada, on 28 September 2022.](https://images.newscientist.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/02142702/SEI_154169392.jpg?width=1200)
A bison licking the wound of one other bison in British Columbia, Canada
T.S. Jung
American bison have been noticed licking one another’s wounds, a stress-reducing behaviour not documented in a hoofed mammal till now.
When animals maintain accidents, licking is usually the primary line of defence for wound care. Licking a laceration or puncture can take away particles that causes an infection and assist wounds heal sooner. The saliva of some animals – together with people – has antibacterial properties and helps tissue and nerve regrowth.
While feminine bison have been noticed grooming unrelated calves, experiences of …
Source: www.newscientist.com