How Animals Love

By: Julia Tufan, Contributor

Humans are not the only species that have feelings, make bonds or even show affection. Though science used to state that humans were the only species that were capable of thoughts and feelings, we now know that that is not quite true, as countless animals have proven that wrong. Animals do have thoughts and feelings and are in fact capable of forming bonds with one another. It is easy for us to think about dogs or cats forming bonds with us as their ‘humans,’ or with one another. Wild animals that form long term bonds are often birds or mammals, but that is not to say that there are no other types of animals that make long term bonds. 

Many species mate for life, most notably swans. While swans are known for their fierce territorial nature, they can actually be quite loving to one another. When courting each other, swans will perform a beautifully synchronized water dance that involves spreading their wings, bobbing their heads and forming the iconic heart shape with their necks and heads. After mating, swans will preen each other while “purring” to strengthen their bond. Swans mate for life and are incredibly loyal to their partners. 

Humans often give one another presents for Valentine’s Day to show their love and appreciation for each other; gentoo penguins are also known to give gifts to their partners. When a male gentoo finds a female that he is particularly fond of he will begin collecting pebbles, only the smoothest and highest quality will do to win his love's affection. He will present his pebbles to her during a “proposal.” If his advances are accepted, he will stack these expertly selected pebbles into what will become a nest for their eggs.  Gentoo penguins will share the duties of parenting the two chicks they have. The happy couple will mate for life.

Another species that builds a home for life with their mates are beavers. Once beavers have chosen their mate, they will begin constructing their dam where they will raise their offspring. Beavers live in colonies consisting of a mother and father, that year’s kits (babies) and the yearlings from the year prior. Beavers will mate for life sharing all marital duties equally, including lodge maintenance, gathering food and raising young. Humans may have more to learn from animals than most people think.