Reproductive behavior and endocrinology of the Vancouver Island marmot (Marmota vancouverensis)

The Vancouver Island marmot (Marmota vancouverensis) is one of North America's most endangered species with fewer than 100 individuals remaining. Captive breeding programs have been established in four facilities in Canada in hopes of rebuilding the wild population through future reintroduction programs. However, very little is known about the reproductive biology of the Vancouver Island Marmot. A better understanding of reproductive hormones and breeding behaviors is essential to improve current captive breeding husbandry programs. Fecal steroid analysis and behavioral monitoring through the use of video surveillance equipment are useful non-invasive methods of examining basic reproductive processes and elucidating possible causes of failed breeding. These methods eliminate stress caused by the presence of humans conducting direct observations, handling and blood sampling. Daily fecal samples were obtained from adult marmots 2 years of age and older as a non-invasive method of monitoring reproductive status. Enzyme immunoassays were validated for quantifying testosterone, estrogen and progesterone metabolites in fecal samples. Breeding is believed to occur primarily in underground burrows in the wild therefore nestboxes were monitored for breeding and other associated behaviors. (Abstract shortened by UMI.)