Scientists observe: Majority of animals regularly consume alcohol

Booze-loving creatures

A new study published in the journal Ecology Letters has found that a majority of animals regularly consume alcohol—and not just small amounts. The study's authors analyzed data from over 500 studies on animal alcohol consumption and found that more than 90% of animal species studied consume alcohol in some form.

Buzzed and drunk animals

The study found that animals consume alcohol from a variety of sources, including fermented fruits, flowers, and leaves. They also found that animals consume alcohol in a variety of ways, including drinking, licking, and eating. The study's authors also found that many animals consume enough alcohol to become intoxicated. In some cases, animals were observed to consume enough alcohol to become so drunk that they lost coordination and fell over.

Unintended consequences

The study's authors say that the widespread consumption of alcohol by animals has a number of implications. First, it suggests that alcohol is not as toxic to animals as previously thought. Second, it suggests that alcohol may play a role in animal behavior and ecology. For example, the study's authors found that some animals use alcohol to attract mates, while others use it to relieve stress.

Evolutionary benefits

The study's authors also say that the widespread consumption of alcohol by animals may have evolutionary benefits. For example, the study's authors found that some animals that consume alcohol are more resistant to parasites and diseases.