Yawning is contagious even between different species which is why is you see a dog yawn you might as well

Yawning is Contagious: A Fascinating Cross-Species Phenomenon

Yawning is an everyday occurrence that often goes unnoticed. It is a reflexive action characterized by the opening of one’s mouth wide while taking a deep breath, and is often accompanied by a long exhalation. We usually associate yawning with being tired or bored, but did you know that yawning is also contagious? Yes, you read that right – contagious, even between different species. So, the next time you see a dog yawning, you might as well find yourself doing the same!

But why is yawning contagious? Is there a scientific explanation behind this intriguing phenomenon? Let’s delve into the world of yawning and discover the fascinating facts surrounding it.

Yawning is a behavior that has been observed in various vertebrate species, including humans, dogs, cats, and even reptiles. It occurs when our brain detects a drop in oxygen levels and an increase in carbon dioxide levels within our body. Although this explanation may seem simplistic, the true nature of yawning remains a mystery.

One theory suggests that contagious yawning is related to our empathetic nature as social beings. It is believed that when we see someone yawning, our mirror neurons – specialized neurons that activate when we observe someone else performing an action – are triggered. This leads to the involuntary imitation of the observed yawn. These mirror neurons are thought to be responsible for our ability to understand and imitate the actions of others, including their emotions and facial expressions.

Research has shown that contagious yawning not only occurs within species but can also cross species boundaries. A study conducted at Lund University in Sweden demonstrated that dogs are susceptible to contagious yawning when exposed to human yawning. These findings suggest that the contagious nature of yawning may be deeply rooted in our evolutionary history.

The phenomenon of contagious yawning isn’t limited to our interaction with dogs either. Scientists have observed contagious yawning between humans and chimpanzees, humans and bonobos, and even between humans and parakeets. These findings highlight the widespread nature of this fascinating cross-species behavior.

Contagious yawning can also be influenced by various factors, including the strength of social bonds. Researchers have found that individuals who have a closer relationship with each other are more likely to exhibit contagious yawning. This suggests that the contagiousness of yawning may be linked to our social connections and the level of empathy we feel towards others.

In conclusion, yawning is a contagious phenomenon that can be observed not only within a species but also between different species. When we see a dog yawning, the contagious nature kicks in and we may find ourselves yawning as well. The underlying reasons for why yawning is contagious remain a topic of scientific investigation. Nonetheless, it is fascinating to witness the interconnectedness of yawning across diverse species. So, the next time you find yourself yawning after seeing a dog yawn, take a moment to appreciate this intriguing aspect of our shared biological world.

Source: Library of Congress - Everyday Mysteries