Broadcast Outage: We're investigating a broadcast transmission failure affecting the San Luis Valley from Antonito in the south to Salida in the north. We're working to resolve this issue. You can stream our live broadcast online or via the RMPBS+ App.

Stream live and on-demand content now on our new app:

RMPBS+

Donate

Help tell more stories in 2026 - make a year-end gift!

Be Smart show's poster

Science and Nature

Why Are There As Many Males As Females?

Join Joe Hanson as he explores curiosity and illuminates the science behind… well, everything.

Why Are There As Many Males As Females?

Season 6 Episode 5 | 5m 19s

In almost every animal species on Earth, equal numbers of males and females are conceived. Why is that? Especially in populations like lions or elephant seals, where most males don’t get to mate? That’s survival of the laziest, not survival of the fittest. It turns out that in most cases, an equal balance of the sexes is the evolutionary stable strategy.

share

Be Smart

Watch more episodes

Why Do We Itch (ASL)

We explore how and why itching help!

This Salamander Can Regrow Limbs Like Deadpool

Axolotls are special salamanders because they can regenerate entire limbs!

Where Did Earth's Water Come From?

The origin of water traces beyond the solar system to the earliest days of the universe!

Subscribe to Our Newsletters

Get trusted Colorado stories, programs, and events from Rocky Mountain PBS straight to your inbox.

Set Your Preferences >