AI: This week, we detail
the costs of AI versus stock bull usage. While the labour requirements of AI in the suckler herd can be prohibitive, there are options to increase AI usage in your herd. One way is to try AI in a group of maiden heifers. Higher fertility in maiden heifers should mean good conception rates and using a synchronisation programme can minimise the amount of time required handling animals and heat checking.
AI:
This week, we detail the costs of AI versus stock bull usage. While the labour requirements of AI in the suckler herd can be prohibitive, there are options to increase AI usage in your herd. One way is to try AI in a group of maiden heifers. Higher fertility in maiden heifers should mean good conception rates and using a synchronisation programme can minimise the amount of time required handling animals and heat checking.
A simple one-shot prostaglandin programme has been used to good effect in Tullamore farm where heifers were inseminated to natural heats for seven days, given 2cc prostaglandin on day eight and inseminated to standing heats 48-72 hours later. AI offers the option of using some different genetics in the herd, eg high replacement index bulls, to generate suitable replacements for the herd. It also gives the option of eliminating the need for an easy-calving stock bull for heifers.
You don’t need to AI for the full breeding season and stock bulls can be turned out after a few weeks of AI. Good handling facilities are essential. A vasectomised bull is a huge aid in picking out cows in heat and bulls should be vasectomised at least two months prior to turnout with cows. Feeding a small amount of meal in the yard can also be a great help in getting cows in.
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