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Natural history museum showcases the astonishing diversity of sexual behaviour across our natural world in brand new book
This book showcases the astonishing diversity of sexual behaviour, biology and reproduction that can be found across the natural world.
“A very welcome slap on the wrist for those who claim that same-sex love, intimacy and bonding are “unnatural”. Josh Davis’ splendid book will be the most useful settler of arguments and silencer of bigots” – Stephen Fry
Title: A Little Gay Natural History
Author: Josh L. Davis
Publication Date: 04 September 2024
Price: £9.99
Extent: 128 pp
Format: Paperback
Publisher: Natural History Museum
ISBN: 978 0 565 09553 6
A question that has been subject to scientific debate for centuries – why do animals, insects and plants exhibit non-heteronormative behaviours? A Little Gay Natural History promises to flip this question on its head by showcasing the astonishing diversity of sexual behaviour, biology and reproduction that can be found amongst the plethora of animals and plants in the natural world.
A Little Gay Natural History is set to be published in paperback in retailers across the UK on 04 September 2024 and provides an engrossing insight into some of nature’s most intriguing examples of non-heteronormative biology.
Delve into the book to discover the beautiful ‘gynandromorph’ butterfly – a variation that is estimated to occur in one in 10,000 butterflies – that has one set of genetically male wings and one set genetically female, with a line dividing its dazzling body so perfectly it looks almost artificial.
Encounter the bicolour parrotfish – a vibrant species that produces both male and female sex cells at different stages in its life as they change sex when they reach a certain size. Plus, find out more about queer mating rituals across the natural word, from the same-sex partnering of numerous species of penguin, to homosexual co-parenting amongst male black swans.
Josh Davis, Author of A Little Gay Natural History, says: “Scientists have known about the queerer side to natural history for centuries, but often this has gone unrecorded, unreported and explained away. From wild sheep that live in “homosexual societies” to sparrows that have effectively evolved four sexes, this book aims to show how everywhere we look there is queer nature! Pulling together many different strands I wanted to highlight how wonderfully diverse and endlessly fascinating the natural world really is.”
With a background in biology and conservation, author Josh Davis navigates the not-so-straightforward method in which nature organises sex and considers how sexual practice amongst both flora and fauna relies on a complex interaction of genes, environment and undoubtedly chance.
The perfect read for all nature enthusiasts and curious minds alike, the publication has been created in collaboration with some of the Natural History Museum’s 370-strong world-leading scientists and builds upon work and observations from the world of natural science from the last few centuries. A Little Gay Natural History provides an apt guidebook into how same-sex behaviours are more widespread in the natural world than many people realise.
In line with the release of the title, Josh Davis has penned a masterclass as part of the Museum’s brand-new online educational platform, Naturally Curious. The course - curated from the Museum’s world-leading research, specimens and illustrations - will explore the magnificent biodiversity and biology of sex and reproduction in nature. The course is available now for £49.99.
A Little Gay Natural History by Josh Davis is published by the Natural History Museum and will be available in paperback in retailers across the UK on 04 September 2024.
For more information, visit www.nhmshop.co.uk/a-little-gay-natural-history.
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Press Contact
For more information, to request review copies of A Little Gay Natural History, or to request interview time with Josh Davis, please contact:
Natural History Museum Press Office / press@nhm.ac.uk
About Josh L. Davis
Josh L. Davis is a science writer for the Natural History Museum, London, with a background in biology and conservation. As a freelance science writer, he has been published by newspapers such as The Observer, The Guardian and The Times.
About Natural History Museum
The Natural History Museum is a world-leading science centre and one of the most visited attractions in the UK. A global source of curiosity, inspiration and joy.
Our vision is to build a future in which both people and the planet thrive.
We aim to be a catalyst for change, engaging advocates for the planet in everything that we do. Our 370 scientists are finding solutions to the planetary emergency in all aspects of life.
Visit, join and support the Natural History Museum today. Protecting the planet. It's in our nature.