Mulgara - Reproduction Cycle
Whilst little detail is known about the breeding
cycle of the Mulgara in the wild, the following observations can be
gleaned from studies and breeding programs.
The Mulgara is monoestrous, i.e., having only one
estrous cycle per year, possibly due to seasonal food availability
within it's permanent range. This means therefore that the Mulgara
population is dependant on seasonal variations in prey population.
Breeding
occurs during the Winter months with the season starting mid May or June
through September. Gestation lasts around 30 days, with litter size
being 6 to 8 young.
The young attach to the nipples in the pouch after
birth. They then stay in the pouch, really only two lateral folds of
skin around the nipples, detaching after 55 days. They are then weaned
after four months becoming completely independent.
Mulgara seem to be in breeding condition for about
six years, roughly their life-cycle.
