Which Animals Use Pheromones?

Pheromones are chemicals released by animals that send various signals to other animals of the same species. Such signals can reflect when they're ready to mate or when danger is near, among other things. Researchers have discovered the use of pheromones in various animals.

  1. Insects

    • Pheromones were first discovered in the 1950s in moths. The females emit a compound that causes male moths to flutter their wings quickly and attracts them for mating. Ants release a chemical when they're endangered, allowing other ants to pick up their scent and come to their aid. Bees also use pheromones to signal danger and recognize the queen, among other uses.

    Rodents

    • Female rats release pheromones when they're ready to mate. The pheromones not only attract males, but also get them aroused. Scientists have reported the same results in hamsters and mice.

    Other Mammals

    • Both dogs and cats use pheromones for reproduction, to mark boundaries and to increase familiarity. A 2004 study found that pheromones from a nursing female dog can soothe her nervous puppies. Such soothing pheromones, in fact, are available for commercial use for cats and dogs.

    Reptiles

    • Snakes, lizards, newts and salamanders all secrete pheromones. A 2001 study found that female brown tree snakes emit pheromones that cause males to start as well as stop courtship behavior.

    Humans?

    • The verdict's still out on whether humans emit pheromones. In 2000, a group of scientists discovered a gene that they said makes a pheromone receptor. Others believe women emit pheromones during their menstrual cycle, and that both men and women have pheromones in their sweat. But a lack of hard evidence remains, and scientists continue to research the issue.