Temporal pattern of parturition in captive Alpine musk deer (Moschus sifanicus)

Timing and synchrony of birth influence the survival of offspring and the recruitment rate of population as well as the survival and future reproductive success of females. However, there are few studies on the timing of birth and its ecological significance of captive Alpine musk deer ( Moschus sifanicus ). Birth date of 332 captive Alpine musk deer were recorded between 2011 and 2017 in Xinglongshan Breeding Center of Alpine Musk Deer, Gansu Province, northwestern China. Parturition timing, parturition synchrony and birth season of Alpine musk deer were analyzed, and the effects of initiation date, climate condition, age and reproductive experience on parturition date were examined. Results showed that parturition period of captive Alpine musk deer ranged from April to September, and 80.4% of birth was concentrated in June. Median date was June 21st (i.e. average timing date) and the average parturition season was 40 days, i.e., the time for 75% of parturition to be accomplished. Median date of 2013 was significantly later than the other years ( p