This is our distant -- though not so distant, as it turns out -- relative, the pen-tailed tree shrew. The little tyke likes to drink. And has evolved through the millenia to have a near-constant low level of alcohol in its blood. Obviously, say scientists, this adaptation confers on it some evolutionary advantage.
But it is not the only animal species to enjoy the bibulous life. Nay, seven species of small mammals drink fermented palm nectar on a regular basis. They do not, however, get loaded. Once again, it seems, we have something to learn from our furred and feathered friends.