Bisexuality isn’t just a human thing. Across the animal kingdom, scientists have seen many species forming romantic and sexual bonds with both males and females.

Sometimes it’s about play, sometimes it’s for bonding, and sometimes it just helps keep the peace.

Here are 10 animals that naturally display bisexual behaviour:

1. Bonobos

Bonobos are famous for using intimacy to solve problems. Both male and female bonobos have same-sex interactions to reduce stress, strengthen trust and keep their group peaceful.

2. Dolphins

Bottlenose dolphins often form close male-to-male bonds through sexual contact. This helps them cooperate better while hunting and protecting their pod.

3. Lions

Male lions have been observed mating with each other, especially when forming coalitions. This helps build trust and unity before they lead a pride.

4. Penguins

Same-sex penguin pairs have been recorded both in the wild and in zoos. Some even hatch and raise chicks together like any other couple.

5. Giraffes

Male giraffes spend a lot of time engaging with other males. They neck (wrestle) and sometimes mount one another as a way to build dominance and social bonds.

6. Elephants

Young male elephants often form close bonds with other males, including sexual play. These relationships help prepare them for future mating and teach them how to live in herds.

7. Flamingos

Flamingos sometimes form same-sex couples, especially in zoos. They build nests and even co-parent chicks together.

8. Albatrosses

In some colonies, female albatrosses pair up when males are scarce. They share nesting duties and successfully raise chicks together.

9. Japanese macaques

Female macaques sometimes form short-term sexual relationships with other females. These bonds give them social protection and improve their rank in the group.

10. Sheep

Studies show that about 8% of rams are only attracted to other males. Scientists use this research to better understand natural diversity in sexuality.