The mating behaviour of the dibbler, Parantechinus apicalis, in captivity

A study of the mating behaviour of the dibbler, Parantechinus apicalis, was conducted at a captive-breeding colony at Perth Zoo. In total, 21 pairs of P. apicalis were observed. The oestrous cycles of the females were monitor ed, and the males and females were paired when the females were approaching oestrus. Direct observations were made of the pairs over a 2-h period 3 4 times a week for the duration of the breeding season (mid February to April ). It was found that the mating behaviour of P. apicalis was similar to tha t of other dasyurids; in particular, sniffing, vocalisations, chasing and a ttempted mounting tended to increase in the days leading up to mating. No s ignificant difference was found between successful pairs (i.e. those that d id mate) and unsuccessful pairs (i.e. those that did not) in the number of interactions and the average distance between the pair.