The idea of an animal eating one of its own kind just feels wrong. But in the animal kingdom, things don’t always follow our human rules or feelings. 

For some creatures, eating their own kind is a survival strategy. Sometimes it’s about competition, other times it’s about hunger, and in a few cases, it’s weirdly about reproduction.

Nature can be brutal and bizarre, and we might judge it harshly through human eyes, but to many species, it’s just business as usual. 

Here are 10 animals that eat their own kind, and the surprising reasons why they do it.

1. Praying Mantis

Female mantises are known for biting off the heads of their mates during or right after mating. Scientists believe this act may give the female extra nutrients that help her produce healthy eggs. 

So, in a way, the male is sacrificing himself for his future kids. Still harsh, but in nature, it makes sense.

2. Hamsters

Yes, even those cute little hamsters. Mama hamsters sometimes eat their babies, especially if they feel threatened or overwhelmed. It could be due to stress, illness, or not having enough food. It’s her way of “cutting losses” to save the rest of the litter. Shocking, but not uncommon among rodents.

RELATED: 10 extraordinary animals with real ‘superpowers’

3. Chickens

Believe it or not, chickens can be cannibals too. In crowded conditions or when they lack proper nutrition, chickens might start pecking at each other, and once they draw blood, it can escalate fast. This is why farmers work hard to give them enough space and balanced diets.

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4. Tigers

Tigers are majestic, but they’re also solitary and territorial. Male tigers have been known to kill and eat the cubs of rival males. Why? It brings the female back into heat sooner so the new male can father his own offspring. Brutal, yes, but it’s nature’s way of passing down the strongest genes.

5. Polar bears

Due to melting ice and shrinking hunting grounds, some polar bears have turned to cannibalism out of sheer desperation. It’s not their natural first choice, but when food is scarce, survival instincts take over.

6. Frogs

Some frog species will eat their own tadpoles. It’s a mix of hunger and strategy. By reducing the number of siblings, a tadpole may have a better shot at survival. In some cases, even the adult frogs will snack on young ones if they need the nutrients.

READ MORE: 5 animals that give birth through their mouth

7. Spiders

Female spiders, especially black widows, are notorious for eating their mates. Like mantises, it often happens after mating. In some species, even the babies can eat each other if food is limited. A survival-of-the-fittest lesson right from the start.

8. Fish (like guppies and cichlids)

 Some fish will eat their own eggs or young. Sometimes it’s stress-related, other times it’s a way to invest in future opportunities when they sense that this brood might not survive.

9. Lions

Male lions, after taking over a pride, often kill the cubs of the previous male. It’s brutal, but it causes the lionesses to become fertile again so the new male can sire his own cubs. It’s all about passing on their genes.

10. Salamanders

Some salamander larvae are born with bigger jaws, and they use them to eat their smaller siblings. It’s not random; it’s usually triggered by competition for food. It’s ruthless, but those that survive are often stronger and more likely to thrive.

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Sometimes it’s not sleep you need, it’s peace. Real, deep, brain-silencing peace. But with work stress, family expectations, and the economy doing backflips, it can be hard to tell the difference between being tired and being mentally drained.

You sleep, but wake up even more exhausted. You’re eating, but nothing tastes right. You’re functioning, but barely. That’s not laziness, and it’s not just “stress.” That’s mental exhaustion, a kind of burnout that sleep alone can’t fix.

If you’ve been feeling “off” lately and you can’t quite explain why, this might be what’s going on.

Here are clear signs that you’re not just tired, you’re mentally exhausted. 

1. Rest doesn’t help anymore

You slept 8 hours, maybe even took a day off, but you still wake up feeling tired. That’s a major red flag. When rest stops feeling restful, it’s often a sign your mind is overloaded.

Mental exhaustion means your brain is stuck in overdrive, constantly thinking, worrying, over-processing, even in your sleep. So no matter how long you rest, you’re still not recharging. It’s like trying to fill a leaking bucket.

2. You’re emotionally numb or overly sensitive

Ever feel like you want to cry, but can’t? Or small things that normally wouldn’t bother you suddenly feel like personal attacks?

Mental fatigue messes with your emotions. Some days, you feel nothing. Other days, you feel too much. One harsh text, one annoying comment, one more loud generator, and you snap. You’re not crazy, your mind is tired of carrying emotional weight without a break.

RECENT: Top 10 most hated political figures in the world

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3. You struggle with simple tasks

Mentally exhausted people aren’t lazy. But when your mind is worn out, even basic things, like answering a WhatsApp message, cooking, or even folding clothes, can feel like climbing Mount Kilimanjaro.

You procrastinate not because you don’t care, but because your brain is on strike. 

4. You’re detached from everything

You used to love certain things, music, your friends, reading, even just gisting. Now? Nothing feels interesting anymore. It’s like the joy has been sucked out of everything, and you’re just floating through the motions.

This detachment is a classic sign of mental burnout. Your brain, in self-defence mode, starts disconnecting from things to save energy. Unfortunately, it also disconnects from joy, passion, and connection.

5. You constantly feel overwhelmed by “little” things

Someone asks you to do one small task, and you instantly feel irritated, anxious, or even panicked. That’s your brain saying, “Please, I literally cannot handle even one more thing.”

When your mental energy is spent, your tolerance for stress hits zero. Even deciding what to eat or replying “lol” becomes too much. 

And when people say “but it’s not that deep,” they don’t realise, for you, it actually is.

If you saw yourself in any of these signs, know this: you’re not weak, you’re human. And your mind has been strong for too long. Maybe now is the time to rest, really rest.

RELATED: We know all 9 possible reasons you’re tired all the time

As the 11th edition of the Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards (AMVCA) 2025 draws near, anticipation is building—and once again, Amstel Malta takes centre stage as headline sponsor. For over a decade, Amstel Malta has been a proud partner of Africa’s biggest celebration of film, entertainment, and creativity—supporting standout talent and shaping iconic cultural moments. Here are the 5 exciting things to expect from Amstel Malta at this year’s awards night:

1. The Kelechi Amadi-Obi Collaboration at the Amstel Malta Sleek Lounge

This year, Amstel Malta is taking it a step further by collaborating with the iconic Nigerian photographer, Kelechi Amadi-Obi, at the exclusive Amstel Malta Sleek Lounge. As one of Africa’s foremost photographers, Kelechi will curate a truly memorable visual experience that celebrates the essence of African glamour, showcasing the stars of the night in their best outfit. Guests will be treated to unique photo opportunities in this stylish setting, capturing the elegance and brilliance of the AMVCAs.

2. Musical Performances by Johnny Drille and Fido

What’s an awards night without music? Amstel Malta has partnered with two of the most talented artists in the Nigerian music scene to elevate the AMVCA 2025 experience. Johnny Drille, known for his soulful sound, and “Joy is Coming” crooner, Fido, who brings his unique energy to the stage, will be performing live. Their performances are set to add an unforgettable musical touch to the evening, providing a perfect soundtrack to the glamour and excitement.

3. The Amstel Malta Sleek MVPs: ₦1 Million Reward for the Best Dressed

Amstel Malta is introducing a touch of elegance with the Amstel Malta Sleek MVPs, where the Best Dressed Male and Female of the night will each receive a ₦1 million reward. It’s all about celebrating style, sophistication, and the creative spirit of the stars, and Amstel Malta is making sure the night’s fashion moments are just as memorable as the awards themselves. To make it even more exciting, all consumers have to do is vote for their Best Dressed on Amstel Malta’s social media page to secure the win for their favourite, making everyone a part of the experience.

4. The Amstel Malta Style Corner Red Carpet Hosted by Hawa Magaji

The iconic AMVCA red carpet will have a unique twist this year, with the Amstel Malta Style Corner hosted by the fabulous Hawa Magaji. As one of the most anticipated parts of the night, the Style Corner will give guests and fans a chance to see the finest of fashion while also capturing behind-the-scenes moments and interviews with the stars. Hawa will guide viewers through this exciting red-carpet experience, showcasing all the glamour and elegance that come with being part of the AMVCA.

5. The Best Movie Award Category

Amstel Malta has long supported the Best Movie category, and this year is no different. As the sponsor of this prestigious award, Amstel Malta continues its tradition of recognising the most outstanding movies across Africa. From exceptional storytelling to groundbreaking performances, the Best Movie category represents the pinnacle of African cinema, and Amstel Malta is proud to be a part of this monumental moment.

The 11th edition of AMVCA is set to be a spectacular celebration of African talent, and with Amstel Malta at the helm, this year promises even more memorable moments. Stay tuned for exclusive updates and behind-the-scenes action from the event by following @amstelmalta on all social media platforms.

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