Reproductive state and motor activity in female ferrets

The pattern of motor activity in female ferrets (Mustela putorius furo) housed in cages mounted upon rocker platforms was followed under conditions of short-(8 hr) and long-(16 hr) day illumination. A distinct diurnal rhythm was evident that remained unchanged after lesioning of the anterior hypothalamus. The level of activity did not differ between animals kept under short days and long days, between anoestrous and oestrous females, or during the development or waning of oestrus. Ovariectomy did not affect the pattern of activity. These findings are at variance with those of a previous study where wheel-running activity was followed and oestrous females found to be more active than anoestrous ferrets.