Homosexuality has been observed in nature in 1500 animal species, including humans.
So far, there is no generally accepted explanation based on neurological, chemical, or behavioral factors to explain why some animals are homosexual and some are heterosexual.
Some scientists say this may be due to exposure to testosterone levels in the womb, although this remains a hotly debated topic that has yet to be proven.
In a book titled Homosexual Behavior in Animals: An Evolutionary Perspective, author and UCLA professor Dr. Volker Sommer writes: “Within a select number of species, homosexual activity is widespread and occurs at levels approaching heterosexual, and sometimes even surpassing it. 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 may be common since it occurs in 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, since animals are as naturally homosexual as they are heterosexual.
It seems irrational for it to survive as a trait since it interferes with the ability to directly reproduce, but many have speculated that it allows humans to ensure that their genetic material is passed down from generation to generation indirectly, as they can care for their family members with offspring.
For example, help in raising a sister’s offspring.
Similar behavior dedicated to the “common good” of a large group has been observed across species.
For example, in family wolf packs, only one pair of animals breeds – alpha and beta. The remaining animals provide protection, feeding and care for the brood.
This allows their genetic material to be indirectly passed on to the next generation through their sister, brother, mother, etc. or any other relationship.
The same school of thought applies to animals that have exceeded their reproductive age.
For example, female elephants who are already too old to have offspring.
They still play a critical role in protecting the young as the matriarch leads the group to places of food, water, and chasing potential predators.
These actions ensure the survival of the young and vulnerable members of her family, which again helps ensure that her genetic material is indirectly passed on from generation to generation.
Some experts argue that a similar concept can be applied to homosexuality.
Unable to reproduce directly, they may expend energy caring for the offspring of their family members.
Another theory claims that homosexual behavior contributes to successful gene transfer in the long run, as young animals “practice” mating techniques and ways to attract members of the opposite sex.
The rates of homosexuality across species are still unknown as current research uncovers more nuances of homosexuality in nature.
It is still found in more species, but the level of homosexuality in individual species is not well understood to be able to determine whether homosexuality is becoming more common.