10 Unbelievable Animal Myths People Still Believe

Myth 2 - The Lemming's Fatal Plunge

The myth of lemmings committing mass suicide by jumping off cliffs is one of the most dramatic and enduring animal myths. Popularized by documentaries and films, this myth paints a picture of these small rodents engaging in inexplicable self-destructive behavior. In reality, lemming populations fluctuate dramatically, leading to migrations in search of food. During these migrations, some lemmings may accidentally fall off cliffs or drown while crossing bodies of water, but this is not intentional mass suicide. The myth likely gained traction due to its dramatic visuals and the human fascination with self-sacrifice and collective behavior. Understanding the ecological dynamics of lemming populations offers a more accurate and less sensationalized view of their natural behaviors.