Analysis of the estrous cycle of the laboratory-housed Senegal galago (Galago senegalensis senegalensis): natural and induced cycles.

The natural estrous cycle of captive Senegal galagos was analyzed from daily records of 11 cycling females for 18 months, and induction of vaginal estrus and ovulation by gonadotropins and estrogen were examined in 9 females. No seasonal trend in cycling was indicated, as at least 5 of the 11 cycling females exhibited vaginal estrus during each month. Cycle lengths and duration of estrus were consistent for each female but varied significantly among females. Individuals' average cycle lengths ranged from 29.2 +/- 0.8 to 39.3 +/- 3.4 days, and duration of estrus from 4.8 +/- 0.2 to 6.7 +/- 0.4 days. Vaginal estrus was induced by PMSG and PMSG-HCG combinations, and by estradiol. The gonadotropins also induced growth and ovulation of more than one follicle.