Buck Evaluation And Semen Handling

Abstract

Buck selection and management are critical to maintaining or improving the performance of the herd. The buck’s health and breeding soundness should be evaluated regularly to ensure his ability to successfully breed and/or be collected for semen preservation. The ability to collect and cryopreserve semen has greatly changed the goat industry. Artificial insemination (AI) allows better control of reproduction, control of sexually transmitted diseases, and the rapid distribution of valuable genetics. This lecture will review the selection parameters for bucks and will discuss important aspects of handling preserved semen.