Characterization of basal seminal traits and reproductive endocrine profiles in North American river otters and Asian small-clawed otters
Abstract 10.1002/zoo.20206.abs In this study, fecal samples were collected from 24 North American river (NARO) and 17 Asian small-clawed otters (ASCO) for 6–36 months and semen collected seasonally from NARO males (n=4/season) via electroejaculation. Our main objectives were to: (1) characterize endocrine parameters by longitudinal monitoring of fecal hormone metabolites and (2) investigate semen collection […]
Evidence for pseudopregnancy and induced ovulation in captive wolverines (Gulo gulo)
Abstract 10.1002/zoo.1430120405.abs Progesterone levels and vaginal smears were monitored to detect estrus and formation of corpora lutea during the first year of a 4-year study of reproduction in captive wolverines. No evidence of spontaneous ovulation was detected during the first year, and most females did not attain complete vaginal cornification. Follicle stimulating hormone was used […]
Integrating trans-abdominal ultrasonography with fecal steroid metabolite monitoring to accurately diagnose pregnancy and predict the timing of parturition in the red panda (Ailurus fulgens styani)
Red pandas (Ailurus fulgens styani) exhibit a variable gestation length and may experience a pseudopregnancy indistinguishable from true pregnancy; therefore, it is not possible to deduce an individual’s true pregnancy status and parturition date based on breeding dates or fecal progesterone excretion patterns alone. The goal of this study was to evaluate the use of […]