Love it or loathe it, Valentine’s Day is an excuse to snuggle up to your nearest and dearest and view the world through heart-shaped glasses. But humans aren’t the only ones who enjoy affection. Whether procreating, nurturing their young or simply engaging in play, animals are capable of sharing some intimate moments, too. Truth is, they could probably teach most of us a few things! So, if you’ve been looking for love in all the wrong places, or simply want to celebrate, draw some emotional inspiration from these cute creature couplings!

1. Penguin pals

“I love you (gen)too.” It’s an intense, passionate phrase that carries great weight in any language even penguin.

Photo courtesy travel and wildlife photographer Renato Granieri.

2. Turtle power

“A thousand kisses from you / is never too much / I just don’t wanna stop…” R&B legend Luther Vandross might’ve looked to sea turtles for inspiration on his classic single Never Too Much; after all, their marathon love-making sessions can last up to 24 hours.

3. Racy rodents

Going nuts for a special someone? Squirrel away a few sweet nothings for a late night rendezvous.

4. Enter the love kingdom

In sickness, in health — and in snowstorms. Monogamous king penguins set a royal standard by being eternally faithful.

5. Seal of approval

Not every affair has to last forever. A surreptitious smooch can be just as much fun, as these lusty elephant seals demonstrate.

6. Lost that loving feline?

Who loves you more than anyone? Should’ve listened to you mom! She may be the fastest mammal on the planet, but time slows when a cheetah grooms her cubs.

7. Love isn’t always pretty

Everything has its beauty — but not everyone sees it. After all, even hairy warthogs deserve a little love, even if it ain’t pretty.

8. Frozen heart?

You’ll need more than the “bear” necessities to keep a relationship afloat. You’ll have to be prepared to take the plunge — no matter how cold!

9. Love ‘reins’ supreme

Occasionally, we all lock horns with our partners. Just be careful not to get stuck in a relationship rut.

10. ‘Gorilla’ my dreams

Male mountain gorillas have their pick of the troop, but there’s always one primate who’s extra special.

Getting There

Fall in love with your planet all over again with the Jane Goodall Collection! This selection of 20 of our incredible, wildlife-focused tours endorsed by world-renowned primatologist Dr. Jane Goodall has been designed to bring you into close contact with our planet’s most fascinating creatures in a manner that respects their freedom. Let this collection of adventures introduce you to the world in ways you’ve never imagined.