The Maturation of the Ovary in Wild Rabbits,Oryctolagus cuniculus,in South Sweden

In the ovaries of wild yearling rabbits the histologic changes occurring between September and March were determined and related to age and season. It was found that a considerable part of the ovarian development is characterized by the growth of follicles which soon become atretic and form interstitial gland tissue. The ovarian development up to a “sub-ovulatory” stage may be completed in the autumn in rabbits born early in the season, and later in those born late, so that by mid-winter they are all in this stage. No ovulation was found in rabbits in the early stages of development, and it is suggested that the presence of interstitial tissue is essential for full reproductive capacity.