* Long day breeders with a period of anoestrus beginning in late autumn.
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* Increasing daylight is the most important factor for inducing the resumption of reproductive activity. The first oestrus will usually occur soon after the shortest day of the year.
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* If constant 14 hours of daylight is provided, the queen will continue to cycle all year round.
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* Some non-pedigrees have regular oestrous cycles lasting about 3 weeks, but others show no regular pattern.
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* Duration of oestrus is 7-10 days regardless of mating.
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* Oestrogen concentrations increase dramatically at the time of oestrus and may double over 24 hours.