Are we the only species to have a menopause?

Asked by: Anon

No. For example female mice, parakeets, and some beetle species stop being able to reproduce in later life. However, a very extended lifespan after menopause is rare: apart from humans, the best examples are certain whales and dolphins. For instance, killer whales stop reproducing between 40 and 50, but over half of them live longer – up to 90 years in some cases. The reasons for this are still being researched.

Read more:

• Which animal has the longest pregnancy?
• Do other mammals go through the menopause?

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