Male influence on proceptivity in ovariectomized French-Alpine goats ( Capra hircus)

• Published in: Applied animal behaviour science 1999-07, Vol.64 (3), p.181-191
• Main Authors: Billings, H.J, Katz, L.S
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Capra hircus; Estradiol; Goats; Proceptivity; Progesterone; Sexual behavior
• ISSN: 0168-1591; 1872-9045
• DOI: 10.1016/S0168-1591(99)00035-0

Proceptivity is defined as female sexual behaviors that bring the male into closer proximity and maintain his proximity and sexual motivation for mating to occur. This study evaluated the effect of contact with a male on the display of proceptivity in ovariectomized goats. Progesterone- and estradiol-treated goats were exposed within a 385 m 2 field to three different conditions: a male confined to a small pen; a male free to fully interact with the females; or no male present. Observations of sexual behavior and proximity of the females to the male, when present, were conducted for 24 h following estradiol treatment. The greatest frequency of proceptivity occurred when the male was confined, limiting contact with females. Proceptivity was displayed least frequently when the male was free to fully interact with females. Display of proceptivity was greatest between 13 h and 16 h following estradiol injection; this was correlated with the time of closest proximity of the females to the male and was also similar to the time course for display of receptivity. This study highlights the importance of providing appropriate environmental and social cues in addition to appropriate hormonal stimulation for eliciting the full expression of sexual behavior.