Humans have been ranked 7th out of 35 mammal species for monogamy in a Cambridge University study, placing us among the most monogamous mammals. We scored a 66% rate of full siblings, meaning most children share both parents — a sign of relatively strong pair bonding.
We ranked above meerkats and gibbons, but below Eurasian beavers and moustached tamarins. At the top was the California deermouse, while species like chimpanzees, dolphins and mountain gorillas ranked far lower due to highly promiscuous mating systems.
Researchers say humans remain unusual among mammals for forming long-term pair bonds, though cultural and religious pressures also play a major role. Despite variation across societies, humans comfortably sit in the “monogamous league” — just not quite as devoted as beavers.
