Beluga whales and narwhals go through menopause like humans because it stops them having young which must compete for food with their grandchildren

Beluga whales and narwhals go through menopause 'just like humans', scientists have discovered.

They suggest the trait, which is extremely rare in the animal kingdom, helps cut down competition for food within family groups.

Most species in the wild continue reproducing until they die, but the latest finding means a total of five species are now known to stop reproducing during their lifetime.

Alongside humans, killer whales and short-finned pilot whales were the only other species previously known to experience the menopause.


Updated: Wed 29 Aug 2018 at 08:14