If there are any doubts that alcohol abuse, drug abuse, and addiction are (unfortunately) natural elements of our lives, look no further than our furry, feathered, and scaly friends in the wild. As strange as this might sound, our animal companions have the same tendency toward intoxication as we do, and certain species exhibit a particularly strong attraction to these substances. In fact, did you know that some animals will willingly try to get high and actually enjoy it? Perhaps The Wind in the Willows had more legitimacy with the drunken weasels than we would dare to think about. So which animals like to get plastered in the wild and why do they do it? Let’s take a closer look and find out. After this, you might feel a bit more confident in your humanity.
Vervet Monkeys
Needless to say, primates are attracted to fermented fruit (just ask any human, the most advanced of this group). However, unlike its bigger cousins, the vervet monkey actually likes to get drunk on purpose. After being introduced into the Caribbean territories several centuries ago, these mischievous little creatures have indulged in the ripe sugar cane plants prior to harvest, and they have been holding this crazed little parties to this day. In fact, researchers have found that 1 in 5 vervet monkeys will reach for a glass of spiked sugar versus a virgin drink.
Coca Tussock Moth
In answer to your first and most obvious question, yes you heard that right. This moth is named after one of the most stimulating plants on the planet and, as its name suggests, its babies actually feed off the juices. Found in South America, the larvae of the coca tussock moth will only eat the leaves of the coca plant (the source of cocaine). However, while cocaine typically causes a high in humans, these little babies are not affected by the drug, at all. In fact, the coca tussock caterpillars’ neurotransmitters actually block the coca plant’s chemicals, making these little ones viable assets for the destruction of illegal coca crops.
Always remember that alcohol and drugs do not have control over your life. You do. Are you suffering from a substance use disorder or a severe form of addiction? Do you have a friend or family member suffering from one or more of these debilitating illnesses? If you do, get in touch with Asana Recovery today. Our counselors and healthcare experts are ready to walk you through every step of the detox and withdrawal process and rehabilitation and guide you towards living a happier, healthier, and freer lifestyle. While the road to recovery might not be an easy road to travel, we promise to help you every step of the way. Take the first step to stay fit, healthy, and safe.
The time for you to take back control of your life is now. If you are interested in one of our residential treatment or supervised detoxification/withdrawal programs, we are ready and waiting to speak with you at your disclosure. Call Asana now at (949) 438-4504 to learn how to overcome your drug abuse, alcohol abuse, or addiction troubles today.
