ANIMALS SEEM TO keep themselves in pretty strict groups when it comes to friendships.

In fact, they seem downright clique-y at times.

Thankfully there are animals who care not for the traditional roles and are making some highly unlikely friendships.

We found this lot (including some from the heady days of black and white photography) that will make you smile and possibly even shed an animal related tear (or is that just us?).

1. The pig who has two canine friends

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2. The racoon and the dog who just love hanging out

The way that dog is looking at the racoon as if to say “Would you please calm down?” is the kind of thing we all do with our friends.

AP/Press Association Images

3. The leopard cub hanging out with a dog

This makes us emotional.

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4. The ostrich and giraffe who are friends

The tender way the giraffe nuzzles the obviously terrifying ostrich is truly amazing

PA Archive/Press Association Images

5. The monkey looking after a small puppy

This monkey is also wearing a JUMPER.

Wow.

AP/Press Association Images

6. The collie and duck who clearly love to hang out

Just like us, the duck seems entranced by the amazing hair all collies seem to have

Chuck McGowen/AP/Press Association Images

7. The lion with it’s own teeth cleaning buddy

Real friends clean the teeth of the mates even when one of the friends is a slightly scary lion

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8. The cat looking after possums

This cat doesn’t just have one unlikely friend, it has several

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9. The dog who is looking after a tiny rabbit

We think this might be the cutest picture of the bunch and that’s saying something

/AP/Press Association Images

This unlikely animal friendship will make your heart explode with sheer joy>

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