Abstract
The growth seasonality of the bandicoot rats (Bandicota bengalensis) was investigated in irrigated crops in district Faisalabad, for one year at regular intervals. A seasonal pattern of body growth in 0 & ~ was observed with increase in body weight and length with peaks in spring. Seasonal variations were investigated throughout the study period. Hundred and sixty seven rats were trapped with the help of snap traps from 150 acres of the vast study area which consists of wheat, sugarcane and fodder crop fields. Both trapped sexes were weighed and measured separately. The sex ratio skewed in favour of males. The mean body weight gained in four seasons (fall, winter, spring and summer) was 116.06 ± 13.632, 182.08 ± 17.833, 208.08 ± 8.087 and 129.56 ± 14.880g in males and 135.70 ± 18.932, 114.20 ± 10.411, 181.88 ± 15.830 and 154.11 ± 14.240g in females. Likewise the mean body length gains during fall, winter, spring and summer were 15.84 ± 0.592, 18.03 ± 0.602, 18.52 ± 0.276 and 16.36 ± 0.585cm in males, and 16.07 ± 0.769, 14.67 ± 0.726, 17.59 ± 0.536 and 16.18 ± 0.891 cm in females, respectively. Observed variations in body growth and sex ratio in four seasons were suspected as due to photoperiod, ambient temperature, availability of food and differential contributory risks to the sexes. Key words: Bandicota bengalensis, body growth (weight and length), sex ratio, irrigated crops
