Singing, gifting, snuggling—wildlife have unique ways of bonding
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NOTES FROM THE FIELD | 2025 | No. 2

Two elephants, Wild Love

February is the month of love, but all year long wildlife are bursting with displays of romance and affection. First dates, longtime mates, and platonic pals all show their feelings to strengthen their bonds. Even plants have a way of putting their best leaf forward to share in the passion. Check out how species across our eight Conservation Hubs celebrate love in their own unique ways.

LOVE IS IN THE AIR
Penguins

It’s important to make a strong first impression, and a male gentoo penguin knows just the trick. He presents a smooth, shiny pebble to his female crush, and if she accepts, it becomes the beginning of their nest. These tuxedoed birds are real charmers! MEET CUTE >

Black Vultures

Talk about relationship goals. Black vultures form monogamous bonds, and pairs stay together all year long and across multiple mating seasons. Vulture flocks sometimes even punish males that cheat on their mates. Learn more about these devoted avians with our Amazing Wildlife podcast. COUPLED UP >

Naked mole rats

Naked mole rats aren’t actually naked, but when they do get cold in their underground burrows, they snuggle together in a pile to stay warm. What are friends for? Scurry on down to the San Diego Zoo to see these cuddly rodents yourself. CUDDLE PUDDLE >

Elephants

During courtship, young elephant couples often intertwine their trunks, much like humans hold hands. It’s one of the many ways these pachyderms use their trunks to express how they feel. Experience them for yourself at Elephant Odyssey at the Zoo. LOVING TOUCH >

Flower

Nothing says Valentine’s Day like beautiful flowers, and orchids are some of the loveliest. Their delicate petals, daring shapes, and brilliant coloring are enough to make any plant-lover swoon. Find out more about these bold blooms at Orchid Odyssey at the Zoo. DAZZLING DISPLAY >

Gibbons

When gibbons pair up, they make sweet music together and combine their individual mating calls into a unique song. They sing this special tune together during their years-long relationship to keep their bond strong. Swing over to the Zoo to see—and hear—soulful siamangs in action. FOREST SERENADE >

WILDLIFE HEROES
CHANGE THE WORLD.
John, no matter how wildlife show their love, the love you show for wildlife is unmistakable. When you join as a Wildlife Hero, your ongoing monthly support will make a vital difference to the extraordinary species relying on us to survive—and thrive—each and every day. Your commitment fuels critical conservation efforts and secures the future for wildlife, people, and the planet we share. We’re forever grateful to have you with us as we envision a world where all life thrives.
Your monthly gift will make a world of a difference for wildlife.
BE A HERO
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Photo Credit | penguin: NicoElNino/iStock/Getty Images Plus,
black vulture: Gypsy Picture Show/iStock/Getty Images Plus

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