Some creatures live surprisingly successful lives by staying solo. From hidden underground habitats to remote dens in the wild, they’ve learned to thrive without constant company.
While group living can help many species hunt or defend their territory, going solo can reduce competition and stress, letting each individual claim their own resources. This quiet way of life challenges the assumption that social living is always superior.
According to a 2025 BBC Future article by writer Katarina Zimmer, the Middle East blind mole rat is a prime example of a fiercely independent animal. It digs a private labyrinth of tunnels and aggressively defends this realm from intruders.
Elsewhere, creatures like armadillos and anteaters roam alone in search of scarce insects, making teamwork less efficient. And even famously unsociable octopuses sometimes tolerate a neighbor when resources encourage temporary congregations.
Experts now suggest solitary animals can be surprisingly intelligent. They often adapt in ways that let them learn from others when needed, then slip back into their secluded routines.
In fact, studying these animals could even help humans discover benefits to alone time, from less stress to greater self-sufficiency. Observing them reminds us that living in solitude doesn’t always mean being lonely—sometimes it’s just a different strategy to flourish.
It’s no secret that our planet faces growing environmental challenges, and our daily habits play a big role.
Consider cutting back on meat, adopting plant-based choices, or supporting habitats that foster biodiversity.
By honoring every creature’s unique lifestyle, we can move closer to a world where animals, solitary or social, have the freedom to thrive.
This article by Nicholas Vincent was first published by One Green Planet on 21 February 2025. Lead Image: (Wikipedia).
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