Polygyny is a mating system in which one male mates with multiple females. Many animals practice polygyny, including gorillas, lions, and elk. In these species, the males have physical traits such as size, strength, or antlers that help them compete for and attract mates. Polygyny can have advantages and disadvantages for the individuals involved and the overall population dynamics. Understanding the various mating systems can illuminate the evolutionary and ecological factors that shape animal behavior.
Discover Animals that are Polygynyous: