A little more about rabies virus

Abstract

This chapter explores where the red panda lies reproductively with respect to other members of the Carnivora. The red panda shows other similar characteristics to the raccoon and skunk, including such traits as induced ovulation and a delay in implantation. Even if the red panda is not closely linked taxonomically to these small carnivorous species, maybe they are linked reproductively. Linking the red panda in the Procyonidae and Mustelidea families would help clarify some of its reproductive characteristics. This includes defining its style of the ovulatory cycle and whether a delay in embryo development occurs prior to implantation. Similarities are seen in red panda reproduction when compared to the raccoon and skunk. This includes the age of sexual maturation, seasonal breeding in late winter, parturition in early summer, variation in gestational length, young born in a cavity-forming tree and weaning age. The North American raccoon show signs of a second late oestrus in females that lost a litter soon after parturition. In comparison, Mustelids also show a second oestrus if the first breeding is ineffective. Furthermore, female raccoons and skunks are induced ovulators, with skunks' ovulation occurring between 40 and 50 hours post-coitus. Following fertilization in the skunk, a delay in embryo development occurs with an observable blastocyst at 11 days followed by a delay in implantation at day 19. Gestational lengths range from 59 to 77 days, with parturition occurring in May, early June.