Reproductive biology of the cape serotine bat, <i>Eptesicus capensis</i> in the Transvaal, South Africa

Abstract

The reproductive biology of the Cape serotine bat, Eptesicus capensis, was investigated histologically. The study was based on 67 specimens collected over a six-year period. This species is seasonally monoestrous, normally giving birth to twins during November. Spermatogenesis peaks during autumn (March-May) when masses of spermatozoa are released into the epididymides, and spermatozoa are present in the epididymides from March to October. Copulations are initialed during this period from the end of March to the beginning of April, with the first ovulations occurring during August. During the pre-ovulation period leucocytes are commonly found within the uterine lumen and uterine glands of females.