Why do animals have penises?

When it comes to sexual organs, the penis is really ‘out there.’  Name another organ that can change its form AND function in a matter of seconds! 

There’s a lot of variety in the animal kingdom; from spikes and nails to coils and collagen – so, this appendage is worth investigating... close up.  

Sex is Weird is a new series of What the Duck?! with Dr Ann Jones following the sexual evolution of the animal kingdom.   

Please note that this program contains adult themes and explicit language. Parental guidance is recommended. It was first broadcast in August 2024. 

Featuring: 

Dr Emily Willingham, biologist, journalist and author.  

Dr Diane Kelly, Senior Research Fellow, University of Massachusetts, Amherst.  

Associate Professor Andrew Durso, Florida Gulf Coast University, Florida.  

Associate Professor Patty Brennan, Mount Holyoke College, Massachusetts, US. 

Dr Bruno Buzatto, Flinders University, South Australia.   

Philippa Holm, HFR Performance Horses, Victoria. 

Production:

Ann Jones, Presenter / Producer.

Petria Ladgrove, Producer.

Additional mastering: Isabella Tropiano.

This episode of What the Duck?! was produced on the land of the Wadawarrung and the Kaurna people.