Induction of Ovulation and Successful Artificiallnsemination in a Persian Leopard (Panthera pardus saxicolor)

The techniques of artificial insemination, although commonly practiced in domestic animal reproduction, have not been readily applied to zoo animals. Previously reported artificial insemination efforts in nondomestic Felidae have utilized surgical techniques and only recently hag a cub resulted [Moore et al, 1981]. Until the present project, the nonsurgical approach hag been unsuccessful in the production of offspring from nondomestic Felidae [Dresser et al, 1981]. Small populations of the Persian leopard in zoos throughout the United States have been threatened by an increased inbreeding potential. Artificial breeding hag not been achieved in these endangered felidsand such knowledge is important particularly when problems in natural mating occur. Although behavioral estrus did occur, the male and female utilized in this case report were incompatible and following a 4-year exposure, no pregnancies resulted. Thus, the use of artificial insemination was warranted. The objectives of this project were to achieve pregnancy in this Persian leopard through artificial induction of ovulation and insemination using nonsurgical techniques. It is hoped that similar information will help to develop artificial insemination techniques in wild felids and will enhance the reproductive capabilities of endangered species.