Homosexual birds observed mating for life

Scientists have discovered that homosexual animals can be just as loyal to their mates as heterosexual ones.

A study of zebra finches at the University of California found that over half of the birds raised in an all-male group found themselves a partner.

Even more interestingly, when female birds were introduced to the group most of them were ignored by the male couples.

"Relationships in animals can be more complicated than just a male and a female who meet and reproduce, even in birds," lead researcher Julie Elie said, according to The Mirror. "Finding a social partner, whatever its sex, could be a priority.

"A pair-bond in socially monogamous species gives a partnership that may provide advantages for survival."

Homosexual behaviour has been observed in over 1,500 different species in the wild.


/Digital Spy/