"However, I believe I have observed females develop follicles in the spring where there has been no male influence in the current or prior year (other than presence in nearby cages). Anecdotal evidence strongly suggests to me that what drives follicle development is entirely internal to the female – at least the first time in the Spring. That’s part of why I would expect that the development of a second clutch in a second season is entirely dependent on the female, and body condition is one of my prime suspects."

Ryan, you are a gentleman and a scholar. Very well written and insightful making so many great points. I believe there is much viability for all of these hypotheses, particularly in your above statement with INITIAL follicle development post-brumation -- there the element of condition IS vital and a certain factor. As far as the initial discussion regarding post-egg lay follicle development and potential triggers, there seems to be a couple considerations but nothing to really drive it home. But a VERY interesting subject that, again, I think furthers more discussion going forward. I think that this is all relevant and relative, and I would ask that (at least the ones that are involved in this discussion) make note of their observations in the future so we could have this discussion again and compare/contrast what we find. Ryan, hope to speak to you again soon. I actually did send you an e-mail the other day fyi. Wishing all a great "first-summer" weekend.

Jerry Kruse

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