What is the name of the period during which an animal secretes milk?

The period during which an animal secretes milk is known as lactation. This is a crucial phase for mammals that occurs after giving birth when females produce milk to nourish their young. The milk contains essential nutrients and antibodies that are vital for the growth and immune system development of the offspring.

Gestation refers to the period of development of the fetus inside the womb, leading up to birth, and is not directly related to milk production. Weaning is the process of transitioning young animals from milk to solid food and occurs after the lactation period. Parturition is the act of giving birth itself and precedes lactation. Thus, lactation specifically defines the time when milk is actively produced and secreted, making it the correct term for this biological process.