In the Bible, Eve doesnt seem phased by the fact the serpent talks to her, seemingly showing animals in general used to communicate with humans in a language based way. I know the serpent was probably possessed but still, it shows that the talking part wasnt unusual in Eve's experience.

Later on in scripture, God allows a donkey to speak, which it seems to be that her sentience and language ability was restored for a short time in order to relay a message.
Children also try to speak to animals instinctively...

What do you guys think? I think it could've only been a thing very early on in history, probably before the flood, or even before the fall of man since those are the only instances which explain it (post flood animals are afraid of man, and fall of man could've corrupted them into that lesser state)