Photos: Meet the best dads in the animal kingdom

It’s not easy to be a good father but there are some to whom it comes more naturally than others. It’s got something to do with genes – at least in the animal kingdom. Whether it’s a case of incubation for months on end or playing hide-the-meal so the kids learn how to hunt, here’s a look at some dads that’ll give you newfound appreciation for the role.

NEIGH PROBLEM Male seahorses not only fertilise eggs, they carry them to term in a special pouch. It takes 45 days for the fry to emerge fully formed and through this time the sea horse keeps them safe. When they are finally ready to face the world, dad will go into labour and contractions as he pushes them out into the world.

HIDE AND GO SEEK Red foxes look cute but can be vicious – except when it comes to their pups. For the first three months the adult male – or dear ol’ dad – will hunt, gather and feed them in the family cave. Post that however, the kids must learn to get their own nosh. Papa comes to the rescue again – he hides food near the den and teaches them the ropes.

PRIDE IN THE CUB Ok, so this one is more about protection than it is about active parenting. Lions have a sort of laissez-faire parenting style – as long as no one is attacking the pack. Anyone with ill intentions will have much to fear when the beautiful maned creatures have their defenses up.

DAD’S IN-CHARGE Once Rhea eggs have been fertilised, it is the responsibility of the pop to incubate, hatch and then take care of their chicks for at least six months – you know, like a single dad.

DOG EAT FOR DOG WORLD Daddy wild dogs chew and swallow for their pups, regurgitating meals until they are ten weeks old since they can neither fend for themselves nor really eat solid food.

EQUAL RIGHTS AND RESPONSIBILTIES Male flamingoes not only help build a nest, they also share responsibility in incubating the egg. When the baby is born, the male will share parenting duties too. This is a lesson in gender equality.

STICKING TOGETHER Emperor penguin dads are very hands-on. When in winter, the mums have laid their eggs and headed out to sea to feed, she leaves the egg in the custody of the father who will not eat, drink or move for those two months. Broods of dads huddle together and keep the eggs warm. In fact, if the chick hatches before mum’s back, dad can produce milk to feed the baby.