REPRODUCTIVE-BIOLOGY OF THE CAPE SEROTINE BAT, EPTESICUS-CAPENSIS IN THE TRANSVAAL, SOUTH-AFRICA

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 monoestro us, normally giving birth to twins during November. Spermatogenesis pe aks 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 initiated during this period f rom the end of March to the beginning of April, with the first ovulati ons occurring during August. During the pre-ovulation period leucocyte s are commonly found within the uterine lumen and uterine glands of fe males.