Estrus induction in four species of voles (Microtus)

Abstract

Male-induced estrus was examined in montane (Microtus montanus), meadow (M. pennsylvanicus), prairie (M. ochrogaster), and pine (M. pinetorum) voles. Duration of male contact needed for receptivity, effects of parity, and vaginal cytology were assessed. Among nulliparous females, montane voles attained receptivity with less male contact than prairie voles. Meadow and pine voles showed very low receptivity rates. Among parous females, montane and meadow voles did not differ in duration of male contact needed for receptivity and required less than prairie voles. Overall, parous females had higher receptivity rates than nulliparous females. When isolated from males, prairie and pine voles had more leukocytes and fewer cornified cells in vaginal smears than montane or meadow voles. Species differences in estrus induction are discussed in relation to species differences in social organization.