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OBSERVATIONS ON REPRODUCTION IN THE MONGOLIAN GERBIL, MERIONES UNGUICULATUS

Since introducing the Mongolian gerbil to our laboratory in 1965, we have accumulated a variety of data concerning the reproduction of this species. The present report is based on the 4-year period, 1967-70.

Details of the origins and management of our colony have been given elsewhere (Norris & Adams, 1972a). Breeding stock were kept as monogamous pairs. If no litter resulted within 3 months of pairing, a different male was introduced and, whenever necessary, this procedure was repeated after a further 3 months. If the female still proved barren, autopsy was performed. Any males or females which showed a strong tendency to behave aggressively were culled. Routine procedures, such as inspection of cages for litters and taking vaginal smears, were carried out twice daily at 09.00 to 09.30 hours and 17.00 to 17.30 hours.