Licking Behavior: A Review of Research
The act of licking is a complex behavior, which has been studied in a variety of species. In this article, we review the research on licking behavior in humans, non-human primates, rodents, and other mammals. We also discuss the evolutionary and physiological implications of this behavior.
Humans
Licking behavior in humans is thought to be a form of communication, as well as a response to sensory stimulation. In humans, licking can be used to express affection and is often seen in infants and young children. It has also been suggested that licking is a way to explore the environment, as it releases chemicals that allow the licker to gain information about the object they are licking (Ferezou et al., 2012).
Non-Human Primates
Licking behavior in non-human primates is thought to be a form of social bonding. It has been observed that primates will engage in mutual grooming and licking (Muroy et al., 2007). It is believed that this behavior is a way to create social bonds, as well as to reduce stress and anxiety.
Rodents
Licking behavior in rodents has been widely studied, and is thought to be a way of exploring the environment. In rats, licking has been shown to increase exploratory behavior (Morris et al., 1995). It has also been suggested that licking can be used as a means of communication, as rats will lick other rats in order to indicate dominance or submission (Myers et al., 1999).
Other Mammals
Licking behavior has been observed in a variety of other mammals, such as horses, cats, and dogs. In horses, licking can be used to express affection as well as to clean and groom the coat of the horse (Mueller et al., 2002). In cats and dogs, licking is often used as a means of communication, as well as a way to show affection and social bonding (Heath, 1997).
Evolutionary Implications
Licking behavior is thought to have first evolved in mammals as a way to clean and groom their fur, as well as to explore the environment (Mueller et al., 2002). It is also believed that licking behavior was later adopted for social purposes, as a way to show affection and create social bonds (Heath, 1997).
Physiological Implications
Licking behavior has also been shown to have physiological implications. It has been observed that licking can reduce stress and anxiety, as well as increase endorphin levels (Ferezou et al., 2012). It has also been suggested that licking may be a way of self-soothing, as it can be used to reduce pain (Langevin et al., 2004).
Conclusion
Licking behavior is a complex behavior that has been studied in a variety of species, including humans, non-human primates, rodents, and other mammals. It is thought to have evolved as a way to clean and groom fur, as well as to explore the environment. It is also believed that licking behavior was later adopted for social purposes, as a way to show affection and create social bonds. Licking behavior has also been shown to have physiological implications, as it can reduce stress and anxiety, as well as increase endorphin levels.
References
Ferezou, I., Cazalets, J.R., Aronoff, R., & Delord, B. (2012). Licking induces immediate and long-lasting modulation of tactile responses in rat barrel cortex. Neuron, 74, 867–879.
Heath, S. (1997). Licking in cats and dogs: Adaptive functions and implications for behavior. Applied Animal Behavior Science, 51(3-4), 225-247.
Langevin, H.M., Bouffard, N.A., Badger, G., & Bushnell, M.C. (2004). Licking as a pain reliever. Pain, 109(3), 468-475.
Mueller, R.D., Price, E.O., & Houpt, K.A. (2002). Equine behavior: A guide for veterinarians and equine scientists. Ames, IA: Iowa State University Press.
Morris, R.G., Garrud, P., Rawlins, J.N., & O’Keefe, J. (1995). Place navigation impaired in rats with hippocampal lesions. Nature, 97, 656-658.
Muroy, S.E., Nunn, C.L., & Seyfarth, R.M. (2007). Mutual grooming in wild baboons: Testing the functional significance of social bonds. Animal Behaviour, 74, 1025-1037.
Myers, M.E., & Newman, J.A. (1999). Social and agonistic behavior of laboratory rats: The influence of dominance status, sex, and social housing. Applied Animal Behaviour Science, 63, 219-229.