THE SNOW LEOPARD (PANTHERA UNCIA): MONITORING REPRODUCTIVE ACTIVITY IN A CONTROLLED ENVIRONMENT

ABSTRACT - Conservation programs for endangered wild felines in controlled environments are subordinated to the objective of ensuring proper management of these animals. The aim of this study is to monitor the reproductive activity of snow leopards (Panthera Uncia) in a controlled environment -Natura Viva Park in Bussolengo (VR)- using a non-invasive method for collecting samples. The snow leopards, object of this study, haven’t produced offspring despite the manifestations of oestrous in the female. The reproductive patterns were assessed observing the animals’ behaviour and using radioimmunoassay for the determination of faecal steroid concentrations (progesterone and testosterone). The female showed a cyclic alternation of follicular and luteal phases:the seasonal pattern therefore appears to be normal. The progressive rise in progesterone levels following ovulation could have been either induced by coupling (not observed) or could have been spontaneous since the subjects live together. In the male, the testosterone concentrations remained low during the week of maximum female progesterone concentration. Therefore it can be assumed that the reproductive failure observed is linked to poor and erratic production of testosterone, promoter of spermatogenesis and sperm maturation.