Five of the Most Dedicated African Animal Dads
African animal dads display an exceptional level of dedication that often goes unnoticed. These devoted dads play an essential role in the survival and growth of their offspring in the African wilderness.
Read more about five of the most dutiful African animal dads that embody the essence of fatherhood in the wild.
1) Flamingo
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Flamingos are all about equality. Male flamingos are monogamous, mating with one female for life. When it comes to mating, a male flamingo will help find a nesting site and with his female partner, they will construct the nest out of mud. When an egg is laid, mom and dad take turns incubating the egg and when the egg hatches, the parents equally share parental duties.
2) Gorilla
Gorilla dads often lead groups of up to 30 female gorillas and their young ones. As the leader of the group, the dad gorilla is responsible for finding food for his family. He keeps the clan safe by pounding his chest and fending off enemies. Fathers also spend a lot of time with their young ones before they become teenagers, often playing, grooming, and welcoming them into their nest to keep them warm and safe.
3) Wild Dogs
African wild dog pups are unable to eat proper solids until they are about 10 weeks old. Dogs hunt in packs and after a catch, dads will regurgitate their food to feed their young. Not only does this act help feed their pups, but it also helps keep them close to home where they can be better supervised and protected from predators.
4) Lion
Lions are typically known for lazing in the shade and getting first dibs when the lionesses make a kill, but they aren’t all that bad. The main role of a lion is to protect his pride and their territory. When his pride is in danger, the lion will aggressively fight competing prides and predators to protect his family.
5) Ostrich
These flightless African birds are great fathers. The male and female ostriches will share the parental responsibilities with each taking turns incubating the eggs in a nest created by the male. Other female ostriches will lay eggs in the same nest, potentially from different males, but the male ostrich will guard the nest of what is his and other male’s offspring. The guardian male aggressively protects the babies and will charge at any animal, even another female.