Do you know about these animal and bird species where males and females look radically different?
In some species, males and females look so radically different that they could almost be mistaken for separate species altogether. The reason behind this biological wonder lies in a condition known as sexual dimorphism, a condition typically driven by sexual selection, where individuals compete for mates and desirable traits evolve over time.
According to BBC Wildlife Magazine, sexual dimorphism refers to the distinct differences in appearance or behaviour between males and females of the same species, manifesting in many fascinating ways—size, coloration, and the presence of secondary sex characteristics like tail feathers, breasts, or antlers. These dimorphic traits typical to males or females aren't directly involved in reproduction, and help animals identify the opposite sex without staring rudely at their nether regions.
Here are five unique animal and bird species that exhibit sexual dimorphism:
Looking at the differences between males and females, one of the first things you'll notice is that males exhibit a more vibrant colouration on their faces and behinds. Out of all the males, the dominant adult male is usually the brightest red. Mandrill sexes also differ in size. While the average female weighs about 27 pounds, some males can weigh up to 82 pounds.
These pinnipeds are named for the males' large proboscises (noses) that elongate during puberty and wind up looking like stunted elephant trunks. This appendage helps them emit incredibly loud roars as they congregate during the mating season, from December to March. The rhythmic clicks they make with their notorious snouts help identify them as individuals. The females lack this nose.
The iconic bushy manes of African lions are highly linked to the process of sexual selection, and studies have shown that lionesses are more likely to pick a mate that boasts a dark, thick mane. Lions are the only cats that exhibit sexual dimorphism. Male lions are also larger and sometimes twice as heavy as lionesses.
As they reach sexual maturity, male orangutans begin to develop enlarged cheek flaps and throat sacs meant to exhibit their dominance. When there is more than one male within a family, the more dominant male will exhibit more exaggerated cheek flaps. Besides this distinguishing face morphology, male orangutans are generally roughly twice the size of females, and they look even bigger, with hair longer and bushier than that of their female counterparts.
While males – peacocks – sport a flamboyant and iridescent 'train' of tail feathers they can open up in a grand display. Females – peahens – are primarily brown, grey, and cream with white bellies. When the males are ready to mate, they'll fan out their feathers and give them a shake before rushing at females. The stunning plumage however comes with a bit of disadvantage, as peahens are more capable of blending in and hiding from predators owing to their understated colour.
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