Winter reproduction in the greater mouse-eared bat (Myotis myotis) in South Iberia

One of the characteristics shared by temperate zone bats is the ability to delay reproductive events (such as ovulation and fertilization and, more rarely, implantation). It has been suggested in different vertebrate groups that these delays allow the females to time copulation and birth optimally in order to obtain the best quality mates (Birkhead & MØller, 1993). In accordance with this hypothesis, mating takes place in autumn in temperate zone bats, when males are in good physical condition. This timing furnishes to females a better selection choice and allows the delivery of offspring in late spring or summer when the availability of food resources is maximal. During a study of cave-bat populations in Andalusia, southern Spain, some cases of winter reproduction in a colony of mouse-eared bats (Myotis myotis) were observed and herein reportedPeer reviewe