In the News - June 2009
Producers urged to check bull fertility levels before breeding season
FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. - Breeding season is right around the corner for spring
calving operations. Proper bull management is crucial for a successful breeding
season, according to Dr. Jeremy Powell, assistant professor/extension
veterinarian with the University of Arkansas, Division of Agriculture.
However, according the 2008 U.S. Department of Agriculture's National Animal
Health Monitoring System (NAHMS), only 27 percent of beef cattle operations
annually test bulls before turning them out for the breeding season.
"Bulls can differ in their reproductive capabilities, and research studies
show that one in five bulls that undergo a breeding soundness evaluation aren’t
satisfactory breeders," says Powell.
"Obviously, results from using an infertile bull can be disappointing," he
said. "You can’t afford to use a bull that isn’t a satisfactory potential
breeder," Powell said.
The risk of experiencing problems with bull fertility can be minimized
through the use of a breeding soundness evaluation (BSE).
A BSE is a practical method to identify bulls with less than satisfactory
breeding potential. This evaluation should be conducted on every bull at least
30 days before each breeding season to allow enough time for replacement of
deferred or unsatisfactory bulls.
The first step in a BSE is to select a veterinarian in your area who is
competent in conducting a complete BSE.
The BSE includes an evaluation of the bull's physical ability to
successfully mate. Both internal and external portions of the reproductive tract
are examined or palpated for abnormalities. A measurement of scrotal
circumference is included as an indicator of the production of high-quality
sperm. A semen sample is also evaluated.
Bulls still need to be observed during the breeding season for normal libido,
but a breeding soundness exam prior to turn out will greatly reduce risks
associated with infertile bulls, according to Powell.
For more information on determining fertility of bulls, contact your county
extension agent or see a U of A fact sheet at
www.uaex.edu/Other_Areas/publications/PDF/FSA-3046.pdf.
The Cooperative Extension Service is part of the U of A Division of
Agriculture.
June 5, 2009
Media Contact: Elizabeth Fortune
Extension Communications Specialist
U of A Division of Agriculture
Cooperative Extension Service
(501) 671-2120
efortune@uaex.edu
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