Reproductive ecology of the Springhaas Pedetes capensis in Botswana

The reproductive ecology of the Springhaas was studied in the Republic of Botswana (August 1971-August 1974). Springhaas were collected over 24 consecutive months (153 foetuses and 560 juveniles and adults). Springhaas are monotocous. There was no difference between the number of implantations in each uterine horn. Seventy-six per cent of adult females were pregnant, 46 % were lactating, and only 4 % were neither pregnant nor lactating. Neonates are confined to the burrow and totally dependent upon the mother until they attain a body weight of approximately 1.3 kg. The male to female ratio was 51:49, and the juvenile to adult ratio was 28:72. No seasonal peaks in reproductive effort were noted. The reproductive strategy of the Springhaas is considered. Predation is believed to be the primary mover in the evolution of the Springhaas reproductive strategy.