Influence of weather and phenotypic characteristics on pregnancy rates of female roe deer in central Italy

摘要: In many ungulates, female fecundity is influenced by weather, population density and body condition. Based on a six-year survey of the reproductive tracts adult roe deer (Capreolus capreolus) harvested in province Pisa (Tuscany, central Italy), we evaluated influence individual characteristics pregnancy rates. Eighty-five percent females were pregnant, with median litter size two (range one—three). We found that rate was positively correlated summer rainfall mass females, whereas early-winter conditions, spring rainfall, age density-dependent factors did not appear to rate. These results reflect particular seasonal variation abundance quality resources Mediterranean habitats show heavier (high-quality mothers) are more productive than lighter females.