Specific mating behavior of Malayan pangolin (Manis javanica) in captivity

Area of Science:

• Zoology
• Conservation Biology
• Animal Behavior

Background:

• Pangolins (Manis spp.) face rapid population decline, making captive breeding crucial for their survival.
• Understanding pangolin mating behavior is vital for effective breeding management and conservation strategies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the mating behavior of the Malayan pangolin (Manis javanica).
• To provide insights into reproductive characteristics for improved captive breeding programs.

Main Methods:

• Observation of 360 mating events in six male and 24 female Malayan pangolins using CCTV surveillance.
• Data collection on mating positions, timing, duration, and pre-mating behaviors over a six-year period (2016-2022).

Main Results:

• Male Malayan pangolins do not display complex courtship; they adopt a ventrolateral mating position, often with a consistent side preference.
• Mating occurred approximately 1.72 days post-cohabitation, with an average pre-mating adjustment time of 4.98 minutes.
• Mating duration (including ejaculation and quiescent time) averaged 47.37 seconds, with two distinct peak mating periods observed (19:00-22:00 and 1:00-3:00).

Conclusions:

• Malayan pangolins demonstrate specific mating position and timing preferences.
• These findings offer novel insights into Manis javanica reproductive behavior, essential for enhancing conservation efforts and captive breeding success.