Pregnancy detection and fetal monitoring via ultrasound in a giant panda (Ailuropoda melanoleuca)
Publication Type: |
Journal Article |
Year of Publication: |
2004 |
Authors: |
Meg Sutherland-Smith, Patrick J. Morris, Sam Silverman |
Publication/Journal: |
Zoo Biology |
Publisher: |
A Wiley Company, Inc., Wiley Subscription Services |
Keywords: |
fetal development, placenta, pregnancy loss, twin pregnancy, ultrasound |
ISBN: |
1098-2361 |
Abstract:
Abstract 10.1002/zoo.20022.abs Transabdominal ultrasound was used to monitor the reproductive tract of a female giant panda (Ailuropoda melanoleuca) for three consecutive breeding seasons starting in 2001. Parturition did not occur in 2001 or 2002. In 2003, uterine enlargement was noted 109 days after natural mating occurred. A twin pregnancy was detected via transabdominal ultrasound 134 days following natural mating. Four subsequent ultrasound examinations, performed at 137, 138, 140, and 142 days postmating, documented fetal development. The female gave birth to one infant 150 days postmating. Zoo Biol 23:449–461, 2004. © 2004 Wiley-Liss, Inc.