The Animal Mating Game: The Wacky, Weird World of Sex in the Animal Kingdom

"Sex, even in the animal kingdom, is generally regarded as a taboo topic for young readers, but with a frank approach and an emphasis on the absolute necessity of reproduction, Downer explores mating habits of several species. Relying on up-to-date research and soundly evidentiary studies, the book delves into common means of attracting a mate, exotic genitalia, hormonally driven instincts, and the rarity of genetic monogamy. By organizing information into thematic chapters, Downer emphasizes the commonalities among species, humans included. Readers will learn that some birds offer dead mice as gifts to impress potential mates, rhinoceroses use their feces to project pheromones, and copulation invariably leads to death for honeybee drones; in comparison, human sexuality doesn't seem quite so sensational. The interdependence of species, conservation efforts, and the threat of extinction are underlying themes that offer points of entry for discussing blush-inducing topics. This is a visually appealing and scientifically sound resource on an uncommon topic."--Booklist

"The manner in which various animals mate and reproduce is varied, at times bizarre, and, in this exploration of the topic, downright fascinating. Downer begins by describing the mechanics of animal sex. Some reproduce via internal fertilization (the genitalia of male and female partners fit together, enabling the male's sperm to fertilize the female's eggs), and others reproduce via external fertilization (eggs are fertilized outside the female). Hermaphroditic animals have male and female sexual organs and are capable of mating with any member of their species. Subsequent chapters address the unique mating practices that accompany the act. Many animals perform complex dances to attract a mate; the satin bowerbird builds a special dance floor decorated with blue objects where he performs his mating dance. Some animals sing, yell, or croak to attract a mate, while others fight competitors to prove their worth. There are creatures who woo potential partners with gifts of food, while others produce pheromones that signal they are ready to mate. Some are equipped with unique genitalia; female marsupials have three vaginas and two uteruses (enabling them to have two different pregnancies at one time), and female hyenas have a clitoris so enlarged that it is called a pseudopenis. Mating, for some animals, is the grand finale--they mate and die. Sidebars and color photographs add visual interest to the already absorbing and accessible text. VERDICT: Downer's investigation of the myriad ways different species produce offspring is sure to enthrall researchers and browsers."--School Library Journal

"'Without animal sex there would be no animal life.' Downing, author of several acclaimed nonfiction titles about animals, turns her attention to sex. Chapter by chapter, she documents the way animals get one another's attention through dancing, singing, showing off, gifts, and fragrances. She goes on to describe varieties of sexual equipment (the penis bones called baculums some mammals have, a female hyena's pseudo-penis, a blanket octopus's detachable hectocotylus) as well as group sex, once-in-a-lifetime sex, and infidelity. Her exposition is clear. The topic is so engaging and her choices are so varied that the numerous examples never feel like too many. There are hermaphroditic, penis-fencing flat worms, giraffes who pee in the mouths of likely mates to show they are in estrus, and subordinate male gelada baboons who sneak away and do the deed silently and secretly. Dramatic design elements include colorful, stylized print edgings, close-up color stock photographs, and occasional text boxes that break up the pages. An extensive list of suggestions for further information will encourage further research and help convince young readers that she was not making this up! A unique and well-organized survey of reproductive behaviors that belongs in every middle and upper school library but will probably not last long on the shelf."--Kirkus Reviews

Birds do it, bees do it, penguins do it, and orangutans do it. By having sex and giving birth to offspring, animals ensure that their species will survive into the next generation. And in this quest for survival, animals go to great lengths.

Some animal mating techniques may strike you as strange or gross, but to the animals themselves, these practices are essential. Animals with the best strategies for choosing mates and making babies ensure that their species live on. Without animal sex, there would be no animal life.