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February, the month of love, isn’t just for humans. As Valentine’s Day approaches, and with the UK predicted to spend almost £1.5 billion for the occasion in 20251, it will come as no surprise that owners are also spending a lot of time, and money showing their furry friends how they feel. The animal kingdom may not be able to splash the cash but it’s no different in offering fascinating declarations of bonding and love in the most diverse and heartwarming of ways.
Most domesticated pets wear their hearts on their sleeves (or fur!). But do wild animals express their love so openly? Catrin George, animal wellbeing specialist at Animal Friends Pet Insurance shares some of the differences in the way our furry friends and wild animals show their affections. Catrin says:
“Whilst cats are often seen as aloof, they can still be very affectionate, often showing their love through ‘head boops’, rubbing their head or cheek against you to transfer their scent. This translates as a megaphone message from your cat to others, informing the world that you are their family2. Whilst bringing “gifts” like dead mice may not be as welcome, it is a cat’s way of sharing and showing that they consider you part of their family. Dogs however are well known for their affectionate nature and can show love by following you everywhere you go or heavily leaning against you. By leaning on their humans, dogs are looking for a sense of comfort and a feeling of safety3. Sleeping nearby can also signify that they consider you part of their pack”
As the only pet insurer in the UK founded specifically to give back to animal welfare, Animal Friends not only protect pets but also donates millions to safeguarding vulnerable animals around the world. So, in honour of Valentine’s and World Whale Day (February 16th) and as long-term supporters of charities such as the Whale and Dolphin Conservation Society and Born Free, Catrin is also exploring the unique ways in which whales and other wild animals express their love and affection through some captivating behaviours.
Humpbacks are Whaley romantic
Humans aren’t shy about using romantic music to show their loved ones how they feel, and Humpback whales are no different. Catrin says:
“Humpbacks rely on their whale call to help communicate in water, so it’s known that males have turned to composing and singing their very own love songs to win over the ladies. However, the females are a little more direct in their approach, by fluke and fin slapping on the surface of the water to encourage a male to approach4.
“Humpback affection extends to their young as well. A calf will nurse from its mother for a year, during which time mum will have to educate and protect her young from fierce predators. They have even been observed whispering with each other so that they can stay in contact without prey overhearing them5, and they’ll even bravely defend their young, alone, against entire pods of orcas.”
Orca family ties
It’s not just Humpbacks that flirt through song or display matriarchal signs in their ocean habitat. Catrin explains:
“Many whale species form strong bonds with their offspring, but orcas take it a step further. Mothers and their calves stay together for life, even after the offspring have their own babies. Orca mothers are fiercely protective, staying awake for the first month of their newborn’s life, mirroring the calf’s sleep patterns6.”
A Penguins chosen gift
Gift-giving isn’t exclusive to human romance. Catrin adds:
“Male Gentoo penguins are known to gift their chosen mate a pebble during mating season. This pebble is then used to build the nest in which their eggs will lay4. It’s even said that a male Gentoo is a true romantic, searching high and low to secure the perfect pebble for his lady.”
A trunk full of love on land
Elephants have often been known for their gentle nature and deep connections, Catrin explains further:
“These giant, gorgeous mammals will often demonstrate love to others in their herd through gentle touches like entwining trunks7. They also have incredibly strong bonds with their family, with the matriarchs taking lead of the herds and spending time nurturing and teaching their young.”
These diverse displays of love and affection are a powerful reminder that the drive for connection and nurture is not just specific to humans, but a language that translates across species. The wildly different ways that love is shown truly offers a heartwarming perspective on the animal bond that connects us universally and demonstrates why we need do what we can to protect both our pets and wildlife.
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