Evaluation of Estrus Detection Efficacy and Accuracy by Three Methods in a Confinement or Pasture Management System with Holstein-Friesian Cows

Authors

  • J. F. Mee Teagasc, Dairy Production Department, Moorepark Dairy Production Research Centre, Fermoy, Ireland
  • M. A. Palmer Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies, University of Edinburgh, Scotland
  • G. Olmos School of Agriculture, Food Science and Veterinary Medicine, NUI, Dublin, Ireland
  • L. A. Boyle Teagasc, Dairy Production Department, Moorepark Dairy Production Research Centre, Fermoy, Ireland

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.21423/aabppro20084491

Keywords:

artificial insemination, spontaneous estrus, estrus detection aids, estrus detection, management systems

Abstract

Unlike some dairy industries where synchronization of estrus and ovulation is commonly practiced, dairy producers in Ireland rely on visual observation to detect spontaneous estrus in order to plan timing of artificial insemination (AI). A recent survey found that 59% of dairy producers using AI use estrus detection aids. Tail paint (93.9%) is the most commonly used aid (vasectomized bull 4%, Kamars 0.7%, other 1.4%). Though the majority of cows are bred at pasture, a minority of the national herd is bred while housed. The objective of this experiment was to compare the efficacy of three methods of estrus detection in two management systems.

Cover image of the 41st Conference Proceedings: A herd of cattle standing in the field, framed by a cloudy sky. Yellow background.

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Published

2008-09-25

Issue

2008

Section

Posters