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THE INFLUENCE OF AGE AND SEASON ON THE ACTIVITY OF THE TESTES AND EPIDIDYMIDES OF THE FALLOW DEER, DAMA DAMA

Summary.: The growth and spermatogenic activity of the testes and epididymides of fallow deer of determined age were studied through the year in a cross section of British herds. Full spermatogenic activity for all populations was first found at 16 months of age though overall growth of the testes continued into middle age. The physiological ability to effect fertile matings is, however, mediated by social forces. Until puberty, growth of the testes is continuous and independent of seasonal factors. Development of the epididymides parallels that of the testes. After puberty, there is a seasonal cycle of growth and regression of the testes and epididymides with maximum weights associated with the mating period (rut) in October/November.

The fallow deer is shown to follow the pattern of other northern temperate deer and to differ in its pattern of spermatogenic activity from tropical deer, such as muntjac, living in Britain.

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