A Cambridge University study has placed humans 7th out of 35 mammal species on a monogamy scale, suggesting we belong among the more monogamous mammals. The ranking was based on genetic data measuring how often siblings share both parents. Humans showed 66% full siblings, compared with 72% in beavers, who ranked higher. Meerkats followed behind at 60%, while mountain gorillas and chimpanzees scored extremely low.
Researchers note that monogamy varies widely across human societies, but overall we behave more like pair-bonding animals than our closest relatives. Scientists believe human monogamy may have evolved alongside paternal care, even though social and cultural pressures still play a major role in keeping couples together.
In the animal kingdom’s commitment rankings, humans perform well — even if beavers have us beat.
