Key Concepts
This video showcases the comedic and often surprising behaviors of animals, curated by Howie Mandel and submitted by viewers. It blends entertainment with expert insights into animal behavior, intelligence, and biology. Recurring segments like “Stump Howie” and dedicated animal spotlights (parrots, giraffes, lionfish, pigs) provide educational context. A central theme is challenging preconceived notions about animal capabilities and highlighting the inherent humor in their actions.
The Show’s Foundation & Viewer Engagement
“Animals Doing Things” thrives on viewer submissions, with clips exceeding one million views earning induction into the “Seven Figure Club.” Howie Mandel emphasizes his personal enjoyment of animals and the humor derived from their actions, framing the show as a celebration of their unique behaviors. The show’s format relies on rapid editing, comedic timing, and often, altering the context of clips through music and commentary to amplify the humor.
Understanding Animal Behavior & Intelligence
The video features several experts who debunk common misconceptions and illuminate the complexities of animal behavior. Mikkel Becker, a lead animal trainer, explains that dogs dream similarly to humans, experiencing REM sleep and replaying daily events – smaller dogs having more frequent, shorter dreams, while larger dogs have fewer, longer ones. Mieshelle Nagelschneider, a cat behaviorist, clarifies that seemingly aggressive cat behaviors are often rooted in survival instincts or playfulness, and that peaceful coexistence with dogs is possible. Candace Croney demonstrates that pigs possess significant intelligence, capable of recognizing themselves in mirrors and even using computers with joysticks.
Animal Spotlights & Biological Insights
Dedicated segments delve into the specifics of various animal species. A “Perfect Parrot Minute” details their zygodactyl toe arrangement, long lifespans, and ability to mimic human speech (without necessarily understanding it). Mike Veale, a giraffe specialist, discusses their anatomy – necks with seven vertebrae, long tongues used for foraging – and ecological role as “landscape architects.” A segment on lionfish reveals they reach approximately 15 inches in length at two years old, die in water below 10°C (50°F), and possess 18 venomous dorsal fins. Furthermore, the video touches on turkey flight speeds (up to 55 mph), elephant trunk muscle count (40,000), and the fact that humans have approximately 650 muscles in their entire body.
Comedic Segments & Trivia
The show incorporates comedic elements like “Stump Howie,” where Mandel’s animal knowledge is challenged (he incorrectly identified lions as the only social cats). A satirical segment features a mock obituary for a bearded dragon named Yolanda, complete with philosophical musings. A goat facts quiz tests viewers, revealing that goats have rectangular pupils, were among the first domesticated animals, and even have regional accents, while clarifying that “foaling” refers to horse births, not goats (“kidding”). Humorous juxtaposition is a recurring theme, altering the context of clips through music and commentary (e.g., making a cute otter birth clip “tense” with dramatic music).
Real-World Examples & Events
The video references real-world examples like the annual Wiener Nationals Weiner Dog Race in San Diego and the challenge of spotting Dalmatians camouflaged in their environment (featuring a video of 23 Dalmatians). Clips of puppy parkour demonstrate animal athleticism, while a “Cat Highway Patrol” skit parodies police procedural shows, highlighting anthropomorphic interpretations of animal behavior.
In conclusion, “Animals Doing Things” successfully blends entertainment and education, showcasing the inherent humor in animal behavior while challenging viewers to reconsider their understanding of animal intelligence and capabilities. The show’s success lies in its fast-paced editing, comedic timing, and the engaging combination of viewer submissions and expert insights.
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