Sanguinivory

Sanguinivory is the practice of consuming blood. This can refer to the feeding behavior of animals or, more rarely, to the dietary habits of humans. In the animal kingdom, sanguinivory is a specialized form of predation where the primary food source is blood. Known sanguivores include a variety of insects such as mosquitoes, fleas, and lice, as well as some species of bats, fish like the lamprey, and even birds like the vampire finch. These animals have evolved specific adaptations to locate, access, and consume blood, often with minimal harm to their hosts.

For humans, sanguinivory, sometimes referred to as hemophagy, is not a natural or common dietary practice. While isolated instances of humans consuming blood have been documented throughout history, often within specific cultural or ritualistic contexts, it is not considered a standard part of the human diet. Such practices are rare and can carry health risks, including the transmission of infectious diseases. The nutritional value and safety of consuming blood are subjects of concern.