Same-sex Sexual Behavior in Animals: Promoting Social Bonds and Coherence

Same-sex sexual behavior in animals promotes social bonds and coherence within groups. As of today, it has been documented in 261 species of mammals. Both males and females engage in homosexual contacts, suggesting that these behavioral forms have evolved together. Interestingly, they are more prevalent in some groups of organisms with a common ancestor. Analysis also revealed that same-sex sexual behavior has been acquired and lost multiple times throughout evolution. The development of this behavior depended on the transition from solitary to social lifestyles.