It is incredible to think how much progress society has made in recent decades, yet a lot of work still needs to be done. Consider that although slavery was abolished in 1865 it was legal to discriminate against other colors and creeds in America until the Civil Rights Act of 1964. Even after this time minorities have continued to persecuted and continue to face unjust abuse today. In 2015, gay couples were allowed to marry in the United States, removing a large form of discrimination that had existed for too long. While some discrimination continues these issues of abuse against race, belief, and sexuality are slowly being eradicated. The issues that these minorities have faced is something uniquely human. When we look at the animal kingdom there are so many examples of same-sex relationships. It further highlights the importance of nature and how we should not let the norm rule our lives. Let’s take a look at some of the examples from the animal kingdom.
The bonobo
One of the most interesting examples of sexuality comes from bonobos. The bonobo is a great ape that is found in Africa. Female-female relationships are so common that they actually account for the majority of all sexual activity. Over 60% of sexual acts are conducted by ladies with ladies. Experts in bonobos believe that this is because sexual intercourse is not just solely for reproduction. Instead, it is used to solve arguments, strengthen social bonds, and climb the social ladder. Researchers found evidence of lower-ranked female bonobos making more noise during sex whenever a higher ranking female was close by. Experts believe that was used to signal their stature in the group.
The molly fish
There are many fish species that also exhibit homosexuality. One species of fish, in particular, appear to be proud bisexuals. Female molly fish want to mate with male molly fish who are the most experienced as they believe it offers the greatest chance of reproduction. The interesting part is that they don’t care whether the experience that the male molly fish has is with male or female fish. Recognizing this, male molly fish will have sex with as many fish as they can, regardless of gender, to appear more attractive to female molly fish.
The laysan albratross
31% of these birds belong to same-sex partnerships. While sex for reproductive reasons is important females will then often raise their child with only a female. They believe it is better to have a baby with the strongest and fittest male bird in the group, even if he already has a partner. They will then raise the baby with another female bird instead.
Sheep
Eight percent of male sheep (rams) are homosexual while an even larger percentage are bisexual. In the studies of these rams, scientists have noticed differences in the brain of the homosexual sheep compared to the straight sheep. It appears that the anterior hypothalamus has a small ovine sexually dimorphic nucleus in homosexual sheep compared to heterosexual sheep. This may be the first finding that helps understand a scientific or biological explanation for homosexuality, in sheep at least.
The fly
The common household fly also shows some homosexual tendencies. Geneticists have found that by modifying certain genes they can change the sexual roles and patterns in flies dramatically. They have seen some flies act in a homosexual manner, others taking the lead role, and more.
It is clear then that homosexuality does not just exist in nature but it thrives. If we remove the shackles that religion has placed on humanity we may start to see sexuality as something far more fluid. While we have been told since a young age that sexual intercourse is primarily for reproduction, it is clear to see there is a lot more to it.
