Experiences rut in cooler / wetter seasons (greatest availability of food)
Peak rut in the Gobi: late January/February
Develops a dulaa (sack-like extension of the soft palate).
Triggered by rising testosterone levels
Used to produce a mating call: male blows through the dulaa to push it outside the mouth (looks like a red balloon) and uses saliva to create a low gurgle.
Size of dulaa indicates male's virility to female
Marks territory with secretions from poll glands (on back of neck, between ears).
Rub necks on any solid object.
Urinates on own tail and swishes it over its back
Urine contains female-attracting pheromones.
Exhibits aggression toward other males.
Becomes extremely active - collects a harem with as many as 10-20 females (Bannikov, 1976)
Female
Undergoes estrous cycle in breeding season: receptive 3-4 days, non-receptive following 10 days.
Bleats to indicate receptive.
Approaches male, presenting hind quarters.
Urinates constantly.
Flips tail up and down – short quick movements.
Dulaa also present in females but never extruded.
Reproduction
Reproduction
Only ungulate that copulates in a “sitting” position.
Reproduction rate: 2 year interval (minimum).
Gestation and Birth
Gestation
~1 year (12-14 months).
No reports of twins.
Most young born at end of March / April.
Birth
Female becomes restless, and separates from the other animals.
Calf size dependent on the size of its parents. ~35 (25 kg – 52 kg) males larger than females.
Front legs of calf appear first - then head.
Calf’s drop to the ground breaks umbilical cord.
Only ungulates that do not lick and clean baby. Sniff extensively and help the calf find milk.
Mother is protective – won’t accept orphaned young (these must be hand-raised)
Life Stages
Infant (< 1 year old)
Precocious young – stand and walk shortly after birth.
Juvenile
Starts to eat grass around 2 - 3 months old.
Weaning at 1-2 years.
Adult
Reach adulthood: females ~3-4 years, males around ~5-6 years.
