Semen Handling For Insemination In The Field: Splitting Straws, Loading The Equipment And Juggling Eight Straws At A Time

Abstract

Thawing semen in the field for cervid work presents unique challenges due to the time of year that breeding takes place. The months of October to December can range from a comfortable chilly range to whipping winds with very low temperatures. The ideal situation for performing surgical inseminations is an indoor facility with a heat source, cement floors and a semen breeding list that is filled out with the buck to be used and the order that the does will be presented. The reality is each farm is different and nothing is ever the same.