Seasonal variation in reproductive behaviour of bushbuck (Tragelaphus scriptus Pallas, 1766) in an equatorial savannah ecosystem

Abstract

While several authors suggest that bushbuck (Tragelaphus scriptus Pallas) from tropical areas with an approximately bimodal rainfall pattern breed throughout the year, there is also a report of seasonal breeding in this species. In this study, we provide indirect evidence of seasonality in reproduction by analysing behavioural data (e.g. rates of mixed‐sex sightings) in a population of bushbuck inhabiting an equatorial savannah ecosystem in western Uganda. Observation rates of mixed‐sex sightings were correlated with rainfall patterns. We suggest that peaks in reproductive behaviour following the wet season may be advantageous if calves are born during the next wet season, when fresh vegetation is available.

Antelope Predation by Nigerian Forest Baboons: Ecological and Behavioural Correlates

“…Still, duiker have a calving peak in the dry season (March) and another one in October/November [Dasmann and Mossman, 1962;Bowman and Plowman, 2002], while bushbuck calving peaks twice, in February and September [Ables and Ables, 1971]. However, in Uganda, bushbuck calving peaks during the onset of the rainy season [Apio et al, 2009]. Such birth seasonality coincides well with our own data on predation.…”

“…Instead, it seems more likely that calving peaks reflect synchronization of parturition with the time when suitable food is available to the lactating mother or her soon to-be-weaned calf. Duiker are generally frugivorous, with fruit making up to 78% of the diet [Wenninger and Shipley, 2000], while bushbuck prefer to browse on shrubs and herbs [Apio et al, 2009]. Thus, it is not surprising that antelope predation at GGNP peaks with the onset of the rainy season when fresh herbs and shoots are more abundant and when fruit production of study area trees and associated vines is highest [Sommer et al, 2012].…”

Effects of an exceptional drought on daily activity patterns, reproductive behaviour, and reproductive success of reintroduced Arabian oryx (Oryx leucoryx)

“…Reproduction in ungulates is typically timed to ensure that parturition occurs at a favourable time of the year to maximise offspring survival (Apio et al, 2009;Baharav, 1983;Skinner and van Jaarsveld, 1987). Species that inhabit arid areas with unpredictable environmental conditions, however, display more opportunistic breeding patterns, with calves born over a more extended time period than ungulates from mesic or tropical environments (Skinner and van Jaarsveld, 1987;Skinner and Louw, 1996;Vie, 1996).…”

“…This additive negative effect of the drought, both in terms of reduced food availability and less time being available for feeding, apparently had a significant impact on social behaviours and especially reproductive activities and, therefore, on the reproductive success of Arabian oryx in the protected area. Reproduction in ungulates is typically timed to ensure that parturition occurs at a favourable time of the year to maximise offspring survival (Apio et al, 2009;Baharav, 1983;Skinner and van Jaarsveld, 1987). Species that inhabit arid areas with unpredictable environmental conditions display more opportunistic breeding patterns, with calves born over a more extended time period than ungulates from mesic or tropical environments (Skinner and van Jaarsveld, 1987;Skinner and Louw, 1996;Vie, 1996).…”

Patterns of predation and meat-eating by chacma baboons in an Afromontane environment

“…Bushbuck have been observed to breed throughout the year (Fairall, 1968) although calving tends to peak at the onset of rainy seasons (Apio et al, 2009) with two peaks from March-June and August-November (Anderson, 1979), similar to duiker (Bowman and Plowman, 2002). Bushbuck predations occurred mostly during late rainy season and into the early stages of the dry season (March-May), although successful and unsuccessful attempts were made on young bushbuck throughout the year.…”