Farmers using this technology also avoid the need to buy different types of bulls for different groups of females, for example a terminal sire and a maternal bull for breeding replacements.
In suckler herds it is not always easy or practical to observe when heifers or cows come on heat and start showing bulling behaviour. This problem can be overcome by the use of synchronisation programmes which enable AI to be carried out at a fixed time which is planned into the programme.
“This type of AI avoids the need for accurate heat detection and can also compress calving periods. However, it can involve multiple handlings, so a good infrastructure and calm handling is vital,” said EBLEX senior beef and sheep scientist Mary Vickers.
The key to successful synchronisation and AI is getting good advice from an expert so that an appropriate programme is chosen. Cattle need to be managed well so that adequate nutrition is provided and they are in the correct body condition score (BCS 2.5-3.0), with heifers well grown (target 65% of mature weight).
Handling facilities need to be good and changes to feeding or mixing of groups should be avoided during the six weeks before and six weeks after service is complete.
- For more information about synchronisation and AI for the suckler herd, read the new EBLEX BRP+ report - Artificial Insemination (AI) and Oestrus Synchronisation of Beef Cattle.