I guess it depends on the animals involved. I've had some hardy 18 mo. old males breed multiple females that delivered perfect litters. They then resumed feeding and were fantastic breeders the following year. I've also had 18 month old males that didn't have the slightest interest in breeding.

If a young male (18 mo.) has the genes that I'm interested in using and appears physically up to it, I might give him a shot. But, I don't depend on them too much and tend to keep older males in the wings, prepared to step in.

9 mos. is just too young, in my opinion, but that's just my opinion and not based on any science.

Mark
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uncommonboa.com

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