1. What are the characteristics shared between animals that mate for life?
Many animals, including humans, practice monogamy where they make a commitment to one single partner. Some animals, however, go one step further by exhibiting lifelong loyalty to each other, and these are known as animals that mate for life. Here are 5 of the most interesting animals that have this unique bonding behavior.
Frigatebirds
Frigatebirds are among the oldest known birds in the world. They live a nomadic lifestyle, only ever returning to their home to breed. During courtship, male frigatebirds will inflate their red throat pouch and perform sky dancing to attract mates. Unusually, it’s the males who build nests and will then attract a mate. Once successful, the couple will mate for life.
Lovebirds
Lovebirds are a type of parrot that are known for their strong bonds with one another. Upon mating, the couple becomes lifelong companions and will remain together during stressful times. They also share parenting responsibilities, building nests and taking care of their offspring together.
White Cranes
White cranes are a symbol of love in many cultures and this is because of their lifelong commitments to their mates. Once a white crane mates, it will remain loyal to its partner for life. During courtship, the couple will perform impressive displays involving dancing and acrobatics that shows the depths of their devotion.
French Angelfish
Unlike most fish species that lay eggs and abandon them, french angelfish are devoted to their partner and will look after their eggs until they hatch. They are also highly faithful animals, with pairs staying with each other at all times. They will often even share the same hiding spots during moments of danger.
Bald Eagles
Bald eagles are often seen as a symbol of strength and loyalty, and this is because of the strong bond they have between each other. Incredibly, they often remain faithful to each other for decades, and during courtship they will fly in circles and perform several beak locking ‘kisses’.
Animals that mate for life are an extraordinary example of the power of devotion and loyalty. Each species has its own special courtship rituals that show just how special lifelong monogamy is in nature.
With the onset of Valentine’s Day, romantic love is in the air – reminders of the remarkable special bond that one can share with a special someone. An admirable quality of this love is loyalty, as partners remain committed to one another, broken only by life’s many unforeseen events. While human relationships may vary in length, other animals enjoy an extra-special type of companionship – one that often is life-long. Here are five species of animals that mate for life.
First is the Bald Eagle. This impressive bird of prey is the national symbol of the United States, making the strength of its bond even more meaningful. The male and female eagles form a partnership sometimes completing together as soon as two years of age. During mating season, the two engage in ritualistic courtship behavior including aerial gymnastics, gripping one another’s beaks, and even “contests of strength.”
Next is the Black Vulture. As its name suggests, this large bird of prey is identified by its glossy black feathers, which adorns its otherwise white body. This species is the only bird known to engage in a “long courtship” that can take multiple years. Once a bond is established, the pair will engage in synchronized dances as a way to strengthen the relationship.
Third is the Swift Fox. These small, yet powerful animals are adept hunters, often preying on small mammals, birds, and insects. Male and female Foxes form monogamous bonds that can last through multiple mating seasons. It is during these seasons mating pairs will build dens together, creating shared homes that enable the couple to stay close.
Fourth is the Cichlid. This species of fish is often found in lakes from Central America to southern Africa. This tropical fish is a notable example of a monogamous mates. Whenever two pairs swim together, they form a near-unalterable relationship that lasts for multiple years.
Finally, this list includes the Galapagos Albatross. This species of albatross is found on the Pacific islands of the same namesake. Like its other avian counterparts, the Galapagos Albatross is especially renowned for its resilience to temper long-term relationships. The pair builds their bond in the beginning of a mating-season and it doesn’t end until their young have left the nest.
In conclusion, there are many animals that practice mate-for-life relationships. While humans admire such bond, it is among the many species listed here, where such relationships are celebrated and accepted. From bonding dances to nests shared, the loyalty amongst these creatures is something to be admired. Who knows, it might even give us something to aspire to.
