Abstract:
Faecal samples were collected up to once daily from three female Nepalese redpanda (Ailurus fulgens fulgens) prior to, during, andafter the expected 1995 breeding season. Radioimmunoassay of faecal progestinsand oestrogens showed hormone profiles that suggest that this species is aseasonally polyoestrous, induced ovulator. Examination of faecal extractsfollowing high pressure liquid chromatography and using antisera of highspecificity, demonstrated at least five faecal progestins but only one majoroestrogen, probably oestradiol. Samples from males were collected up to onceweekly during the breeding season in 1996, and androgens measured byradioimmunoassay. Faecal androgens fluctuated widely for all males.