Growth and Development of Suncus murinus in Captivity on Guam

Abstract

Data were obtained from 45 litters of Suncus murinus born in captivity on Guam. The average litter size at birth was 1.84; weights of females averaged 2.0 g and males averaged 2.3 g on the day of birth. Only a few guard hairs and relatively well-developed facial vibrissae were present until the underfur appeared after day four. The irises were pink at birth but were black by day two. The external auditory meatus became patent between days five and nine. The eyelids separated between days seven and 10. Incisors erupted between days six and 14 and the young were self-sufficient by day 20. Nonpregnant females attained maximum body weight by about 60 days but some males became heavier after this age.