Do Animals Understand Human Kindness?

Good morning to all-

It has been my experience that wild animals do not, in fact, understand human kindness.

I've released wild animals trapped by mistake in live traps set for other critters. No sign of gratitude from any- just a strong desire to get away.

We feed wild bird year-round, and the birds show up for food, but they express no sort of gratitude or even much recognition of the source of the food. No matter, we enjoy them for what they are.

In my considerable experience, what wild animals want most from humans is to be left alone and not be bothered.

Now, dogs and cats and even livestock- that's different. Most domesticated critters understand very clearly where the Alpo or kitty treats or feed in the trough comes from. And how do they express gratitude? by demanding more...

you all be safe and keep well- Ed
 
I'm not sure what they understand but I know that hummingbirds get used to people who feed them.

When I first started hanging hummingbird feeders, I hung one on my front porch. (Still do). At first, they would fly to a nearby tree when I went out to refill the feeder. I decided to try an experiment. I would hang the feeder then go stand by the door. I gradually stood a little closer each time. They got use to me. Eventually, they would come feed from the feeder while I held it in my hand. I have had them look me in the face from an inch or so away. The buzz they make is loud up close.
 
They do. Izzy was a bundle of bones held together by flees, dirt and whatever. As Maine Coon she has a vocabulary and responds to it. SO and her have conversations. She will roll over for him to have belly and thighs brushed. I am a can opener with brushing privilege. She knows she has a good home with no access limits inside. Never has she tried to sneak out.
 
Yes, my last cat, Pumpkin, and I had a mutual washing ritual. I'd wash his face; I'd hold out the tip of my index finger and he'd lick it. I'd then stroke his face. We'd repeat this until he considered his face adequately washed.

Then he'd set in on my hand. He'd "wash" every inch of my hand, missing no spots. As far as he was concerned, I had washed his face, he'd return the favor by washing my hand. Of course, it was like having my hand sanded down with wet fine-grit sandpaper, but still.....

Then I'd tap my cheek and he'd give me one kiss there and then go off about his business.

That cat had the heart of a golden retriever.
 
I went to YouTube later yesterday to look at the Big Bear Bald Eagle cam. Over on the left side, there was a link titled, "Why do hummingbirds hover in front of your face." I never looked for hummingbirds on YouTube.

So, they must be watching us here. I find that a bit disturbing. I will be very cautious about posting anything that could be personal.
 
Yes, they do. They also understand human abuse:
Tyke the Elephant: On August 20, 1994, a captive circus elephant named Tyke attacked her trainers in Honolulu, Hawaii, after years of severe abuse. She killed her trainer, Allen Campbell, injured her groomer, and fled into the streets before police ultimately shot and killed her. The tragedy spurred major animal rights reforms and exotic animal performance bans
 
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