Jungle Boogie: Five Dancing Animals Who Know How to Strut Their Stuff

Animals perform what looks like a dance for specific reasons, whether to attract a mate, lure prey or as a form of communication.

Gulls do a kind of riverdance that simulates the vibrations of rain on the ground. Credit: Gary Edstrom/Wikimedia, CC BY-SA

‘Strictly Come Dancing’ is no longer the only must-watch weekend TV show where viewers are entertained with impressive moves. The second edition of nature documentary ‘Planet Earth II’ featured footage of grizzly bears that appeared to be dancing against trees. The “pole-dancing” bears appeared to seek out specific trees then rub their backs up and down them.

Unfortunately, it’s doubtful the bears were performing a routine that would take them to the much-coveted Blackpool Tower Ballroom. Instead, they were actually scratching their backs against the trees to help them shed their thick winter coat. The moves also help them to spread their scent so that other bears know who is around and potential lethal fights can be avoided.