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Homosexuality in nature has been observed in as many as 1500 animal species, including humans.
There has yet to be an accepted explanation based on neurological, chemical or behavioral factors to explain why some animals are homosexual and some are heterosexual.
Some scientists say it may be due to exposure to testosterone levels in the womb, though this remains a hotly debated topic that has yet to be proven.
In a book entitled, “Homosexual Behavior in Animals: An Evolutionary Perspective,” the author, UCL professor Dr. activity.’
Homosexual behavior has been observed in many animals, including: macaques, pygmy chimpanzees, lions, giraffes, dolphins, killer whales, and humans.
Some studies claim that homosexuality is a common occurrence, as it occurs in up to 95 percent of all animal species.
There are two main schools of thought when it comes to the prevalence of homosexuality in nature.
One theory holds that homosexuality in animals needs no explanation, with animals being homosexual as naturally as they are heterosexual.
It seems irrational to survive as a trait, as it hinders the ability to reproduce directly, but many speculate that it allows individuals to ensure that their genetic material is passed down indirectly from generation to generation, as they are able to to take care of their family members with offspring.
For example, helping to care for a sister’s offspring.
Similar behavior focused on the “greater good” of a large group has been observed in several species.
For example, in familial wolf packs, only one pair of animals breeds – the alpha and the beta. The other animals take care of the protection, feeding and care of the nest.
This allows their genetic material to be indirectly passed on to the next generation through their sister, brother, mother etc or whatever the relationship may be.
The same thinking applies to animals that have passed their reproductive age.
For example, female elephants who are now too old to have offspring.
They still play a vital role in protecting the boy. The matriarch leads the group to areas of food and water and pursuits of potential predators.
These actions ensure the survival of the young and vulnerable members of her family and again contribute to the indirect passing of her genetic material from generation to generation.
A similar concept can be applied to homosexuality, some experts argue.
Without the ability to reproduce directly, they can expend energy on caring for their relatives’ offspring.
Another theory states that homosexual behavior aids in long-term successful gene passing as young animals “practice” mating techniques and ways to attract a member of the opposite sex.
The degree of homosexuality in different species remains unknown as ongoing research finds more nuances to homosexuality in nature.
It continues to be found in more species, but the level of homosexuality in individual species has not been studied well enough to determine whether homosexuality is becoming more common.