 Reference Base  Faecal progesterone metabolite analysis for non-invasive ... |
|
Schwarzenberger, F.; Walzer, C.; Tomasova, K.; Vahala, J.; Meister, J.; Goodrowe, K.L.; Zima, J.; Strauss, G.; Lynch, M., 1998. Faecal progesterone metabolite analysis for non-invasive monitoring of reproductive function in the white rhinoceros (Ceratotherium simum). Animal Reproduction Science 53: 173-190
|
|
|
|
| |
| Location: |
Captive |
| Subject: |
Captivity - Zoo Records |
| Species: |
White Rhino |
 |
|
|
The captive population of both subspecies is in a demographic crisis. As of Dec 1994, 54% of the captive southern white rhinos were >20 years of age, and the reproductive rate of founders and first and second generation were only 30%, 8% and 0% respectively. The higher reproductive rate in founders was largely due to the import of pregnant animals from the wild. Reproduction in captive northern white rhino is worse, only one female has ever reproduced and she is now deceased. Reproduction is influenced by management factors such as enclosure size and herd dynamics, including dominance status. Reproduction in the captive population is greatest in zoos that have large enclosures and group sizes of > 2 animals.
|
|
|
File available
details
Original text on this topic: