author(s)
Adeola Oluwakemi Ayoola, Babafemi George Ogunjemite, Lotanna Micah Nneji and Oguchi Blessing Nkume

abstract
Information on basic reproductive parameters are crucial in understanding of primate ecology, behavior and reproductive strategies. Herein, we report daily observational data on the reproductive traits of female Baboon (Papio anubis) and Red-capped mangabey (Cercocebus torquatus) atAfolayan Sanctuary, Federal University of Technology, Akure, Nigeria. Our study spans across a period of 120 days covering three consecutive reproductive seasons, documenting reproductive behavior in two females of individual species, giving account of oestrus cycle in relation to their behavior and associated physical changes. Swelling was at its largest within 2-3days of ovulation and maximum swelling were observed in females who had not given birth. One major physical change observed for P. anubis and C. torquatus, was the discharge of mucus after menstruation and the display of restlessness and aggression during menstruation of P. anubis. Information on the precise timing of ovulation was attributed to theswelling size (maximum swelling), changes in swelling coloration and also back counting since the start of deflation. Observations made infers ovulation to be associated with mucus discharge and also period when their swelling reaches its peak. This baseline data is an important addition to further help in the initiation of artificial insemination for captive breeding reproduction.