Breeding of bonnet monkeys (Macaca radiata) in captivity

The results of studies on the breeding of South Indian bonnet monkeys (macaca radiata) over 20 years at our institution are presented. The menstrual cycle and hormonal changes were similar to those reported for Macaca mulatta. It was noted that summer amenorrhoea could be eliminated by housing the monkeys in rooms supplied with humidified air. Although a fertility index (proportion of animals becoming pregnant within three exposures to a proven fertile male) of 60 to 65% was achieved by random breeding, an index of 80 to 85% was achieved by controlled breeding (prior monitoring of serum estradiol-17 beta concentration on days 7, 8, 9, and 10).