Nivek5225;
In the wild, the maximum litter frequency is every other year. The mean litter frequency for a population of the species from northwestern Oregon was calculated to be either at 3 years or slightly over 4 years depending on the method used for determining such frequency.

In captivity, the species can be induced to produce litters every year by shortening the time of brumation then artificially advancing courtship, coupling, ovulation, and shortening the gestation period, Then after parturition, post partum females can be fed frequently in order to regain the robust condition necessary to support another reproductive effort before the specimen enters brumation.

Richard F. Hoyer (Corvallis, Oregon)

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