Puberty is the process of acquiring reproductive competence.  The onset of  puberty depends upon the ability of specific hypothalamic neurons to produce GnRH in sufficient quantities to promote and support gametogenesis.  In the female, hypothalamic GnRH neurons must develop the ability to respond to estradiol positive feedback before they can produce sufficient quantities of GnRH to cause ovulation.  Development of  hypothalamic GnRH neurons is influenced by:  1) development of  threshold body size, 2) exposure to a variety of environmental and social cues,  and  3) the genetics of the animal.