In most developed countries, same-sex relationships are accepted and protected legally. Some progressive governments (such as Canada's) confirm legal relationships through marriage or partnership. In the United Sates, same-sex marriage is only legal in Massachusetts and New Jersey, while a handful of other states allow either "civil unions" or "domestic partnerships". However, in some cultures, homosexuality is still considered unnatural and is outlawed. In nations such as Iran and Sudan, homosexuality remains a capital crime, punishable by death.
In the animal kingdom, scientists have observed homosexual behavior among over 1,500 different species. The most common species are marine birds, monkeys and the great apes. Male penguin couples have also been documented to mate for life. For example, they tend to build nests together and even use stones as a surrogate egg to brood over.
