Abstract
The pampas deer (Ozotoceros bezoarticus) is a South American grazing deer which is in extreme danger of extinction. Very little is known about the biology of the pampas deer. Moreover, most information has not been published in peer-reviewed scientific journals, and is only available in local publications, theses, etc. Therefore, our aim was to update and summarize the available information regarding the reproductive biology of the pampas deer. Moreover, in most sections, we have also included new, unpublished information. Detailed descriptions are provided of the anatomy of both the female and the male reproductive tract, puberty onset, the oestrous cycle and gestational length. Birthing and the early postpartum period are described, as are maternal behaviour and early fawn development, seasonal distribution of births, seasonal changes in male reproduction and antler cycle, reproductive behaviour, semen collection, and cryopreservation. Finally, an overview is given and future directions of research are proposed.
Highlights
The pampas deer, Ozotoceros bezoarticus (Linnaeus, 1758), used to be a widespread species originally distributed in the open grasslands in eastern South America, from 5° to 41° S [1]
Our aim was to update and summarize the available information regarding the reproductive biology of the pampas deer, including female and male anatomy, puberty and seasonal reproductive patterns, maternal and sexual-related behaviours and reproductive techniques
Seasonal changes in male reproduction In Brazil at Emas National Park, O. bezoarticus bezoarticus displays a biannual cycle in testosterone faecal concentration, with a summer peak corresponding to the major rutting season and another peak observed in winter-spring, which is a period of antler mineralization and velvet shedding
Summary
The pampas deer, Ozotoceros bezoarticus (Linnaeus, 1758), used to be a widespread species originally distributed in the open grasslands (pampas and savannas) in eastern South America, from 5° to 41° S [1]. Seasonal changes in male reproduction In Brazil at Emas National Park, O. bezoarticus bezoarticus displays a biannual cycle in testosterone faecal concentration, with a summer peak corresponding to the major rutting season and another peak observed in winter-spring, which is a period of antler mineralization and velvet shedding. Free-ranging pampas deer generally mark tree branches [83], but our observations at the ECFA have been that males normally perform this behaviour less frequently than other types of marking behaviour. Front leg marking was seen by us in only one adult male with velvet antlers Both semi-captive (our own observations) and free-ranging pampas deer [83] perform this behaviour with the tail up and curved over the back. An artificial mucosa should be introduced into the hind's vagina [101]
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Free) 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call
