Estrus Detection

Estrus detection: For artificial insemination, estrus detection is the most important limiting factor for optimum reproductive performance.

Estrus detection: Insufficient and/or inaccurate estrus detection leads to delayed insemination, reduced conception rates and thus extended calving intervals.

Estrus detection: There are numerous factors that can make estrus detection difficult: the length of the estrous cycle varies from 18-24 days. cows may show signs of estrus for only a short period.

Estrus detection: sexual activity often occurs during the night. the sexual behavior of cows in heat shows individual variation. tethering of cows

Estrus detection: The main practical points for a veterinarian to consider when problems with estrus detection are suspected, are: Is the herdsman thoroughly familiar with the signs of estrus?

Estrus detection: Are the periods allowed for estrus detection adequate and frequent enough? Are the cows clearly identified? How good are the records?

Estrus detection: Method of estrus detection: Visual observation. Estrus detection aids.

Estrus detection: Visual observation. As a rule of thumb, three periods of 20 minutes per day are adequate, early in the morning, in the afternoon and in the evening around 10.00 pm. Longer periods are needed for large herds and/or inexperienced people. In hot climates, cows must also be observed during the night.

Chin-ball markers on vasectomized bulls One of the most effective ways of determining heat is to attach this halter device under the chin of a vasectomized bull. The marker consists of a paint reservoir with a steel ball valve, similar to a ballpoint pen.

Chin-ball markers on vasectomized bulls When bull rides another animal, the chin ball marker is activated, and paint marks are left on the in-heat animal’s back.

Chin-ball markers on vasectomized bulls

Adhesive heat pads These plastic detector devices are glued to the high spot between the hipbones along the backbone. Prolonged pressure from mounting animals will trigger either a visual change to the pad (usually a red paint capsule bursts) or an audible signal will be emitted.

Adhesive heat pads

Paint Sticks (Chalk, Paint and Paste) Paint sticks, chalk, paint and paste are all used in a similar manner to detect estrus in cattle. These products are applied to the tail head area, and the hair is combed or pushed forward.

Paint Sticks (Chalk, Paint and Paste) As estrus activity begins and mounting occurs, the coated hair will be ruffled and pulled back.

Paint Sticks (Chalk, Paint and Paste)

Paint Sticks (Chalk, Paint and Paste)

Pedometer This device is used along with a computer to determine how far an animal has walked. Animals in heat are usually restless and may walk long distances.

Computerized Estrous Detection Current computerized estrous detection devices (radiotelemetry) available to producers can be used effectively and efficiently. Patches equipped with transmitters are glued to the tail head of the cow.

Computerized Estrous Detection When mounting activity begins, the transmitter is depressed and a signal sent to a receiver. Mounting activity data includes the transmitter number, date, time and duration of the mount.

))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))) Receiver 1. Transmitter with pressure sensitive button on top ))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))) 2. Mounted onto cow’s rump using a patch and adhesive 3. The receiver accepts the mounting activity signal from the transmitter Receiver 4. Information is transferred to computer for processing by HeatWatch software. ~1/2 mile range

DRAMIŃSKI Estrous Detector The Estrous Detector monitors changes in electrical resistance of the vaginal mucus. Measurements are taken simply by properly inserting the probe in the vagina and taking the reading.

DRAMIŃSKI Estrous Detector for cows and mares