Sex comes at a cost, there’s energy, time, risks of predators, and diseases… so do we even need it?

Asexual organisms don’t seem to miss the dating scene, and yet here we are putting a whole lot of energy into sex, even when it doesn't lead to babies when same sexes attract.

Of course, sex is a chance to genetically repair faults and outrun threats, but is the pay-off really enough?

Sex is Weird is a 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.

Featuring:

Associate Professor Kevin Teather, Author, The Evolution of Sex.

Assistant Professor Amanda Gibson, University of Virginia.

Professor Joseph Heitman, Duke University.

Professor Jenny Graves, La Trobe University.

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.