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4 Surprisingly Cute Animals That Laugh Like Humans, Says Science

Deepak Rajeev | Jan 19, 2026, 17:32 IST
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Animals That Laugh, According to Science (Image Credit: AI)
Animals That Laugh, According to Science (Image Credit: AI)
Animals laugh just like humans. Chimpanzees, gorillas, dolphins, and rats produce sounds that resemble laughter. These vocalizations help them bond socially and signal enjoyment. Scientists observe these behaviors to understand animal emotions. This reveals the complex social lives of these creatures.
Highlights
  • Chimpanzees produce a sound similar to human laughter while playing.
  • Gorillas express their joy through a rhythmic panting sound.
  • Dolphins create fast-paced squeaks and whistles that resemble laughter.
  • Rats emit high-pitched ultrasonic chirps which scientists consider as a form of laughter.
It was always a joy to watch those laughing, giggling and fighting animals in cartoon films. Of course, a lot of their discussions and emotional responses were exaggerations and came from human imagination. But, the truth is, some of those animals actually do laugh in real life too. Indeed, some of their chuckles are often similar to the laughs of human beings. Research tells us that these instances of laughs are used by our animal friends to deepen social bonds and increase friendliness. It is a way for them to signal to each other that “We are having fun! No hard feelings, alright?” In this article, we will explore 4 of those cute and intelligent animals who laughs. Read on.

1. Chimpanzees Love to Have Fun


Chimpanzees' Maintain Peace Through Their "Laughs" (Image Credit: AI)
Chimpanzees' Maintain Peace Through Their "Laughs" (Image Credit: AI)
Like humans, chimpanzees also fight for fun, tickle and express affection through touch. When this happens, they produce a panting and fast-breathing sound that actually looks very similar to the laughter of human beings. Through these “laughing” gestures, they ensure that the playful environment remains the same, instead of becoming aggressive. From an evolutionary perspective, scientists argue that these signals of fun can be considered as a precursor to the laughs of humans.

2. Gorillas Express Joy Through Laughs


A Gorilla Having Fun
A Gorilla Having Fun
Image credit : Freepik
Similar to chimps, gorillas also generate a panting sound that is rhythmic in nature. They usually do this during instances of fun fights or chasing. Little gorillas consistently do this to express the message that they are enjoying and are having fun.

3. Dolphins are Intelligent & Playful


A Playful Dolphin
A Playful Dolphin
Image credit : Unsplash
Research points out that this beautiful creature produces sound that seem very much alike laughs. In fact, anyone who has played with these cute buddies can confirm the same. When they play games with humans or even when they are interacting with each other, dolphins make fast-paced squeaks or whistles. Additionally, if you look at them during these joyful moments, they may actually look like laughing. This shows their complex social and emotional skills.

4. Rats are Not What They Seem to Be


Rats Have Their Own Way of Expressing Joy
Rats Have Their Own Way of Expressing Joy
Image credit : Freepik
As a child, many of us might have seen Stuart Little laugh and crack jocks. Nonetheless, Science tells us that rats do produce signals of joy when they are tickled gently or when they engage in play. These signs are high-pitched chirps that are ultrasonic in nature. Hence, human beings cannot hear them without using equipments that are designed for the same. However, researchers tell us that these squeaks are rat’s unique expression of laughter. Additionally, scientists consider those rats that chirp frequently as more socially-oriented and outgoing. This knowledge gifts us the opportunity to appreciate the rich emotional lives of these little friends.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

  1. Can gorillas cry tears?
    Gorillas may cry out as vocalisations, but they actually don't produce tears like humans do when we cry.
  2. Can a crow laugh?
    Crows are curious and intelligent. But it has not been identified whether a crow can laugh like human beings.
  3. What's the most joyful animal?
    The Quokka is widely considered the "happiest animal" due to its constant smile-like expression and friendly nature.

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