Reproduction traits in the Boer goat doe

Abstract

The aim of this review is to give insight into the reproduction potential of the Boer goat doe. Assessment of the reproduction traits in the Boer goat doe demonstrates a mean body weight at puberty of between 30.6 and 27.5 kg, depending on the dietary energy level. Kids weaned during the natural breeding season (April/May) exhibit oestrus or puberty earlier than those weaned outside the natural breeding season. The mean age at the onset of puberty in the Boer goat doe is 191.1 and 157.2 days for kids born in August (late winter) and January (mid-summer). Although periods of complete anoestrus was not observed, the peak of sexual activity occurred during autumn and the period of lowest sexual activity from late spring to mid-summer. The duration of the oestrous cycle was recorded as being 20.7±0.7 days, with the mean duration of the oestrous period being 37.4±8.6 h and the position of the LH peak (indicative of ovulation) being 8.0±1.5 h following the onset of oestrus. The time of ovulation was recorded as occurring 36.8 h after the onset of oestrus, with a mean ovulation rate of 1.72±0.9 ovulations per doe. The mean gestation period is quoted as being 148.2±3.7 days, with multiple births having no significant effect on gestation length. Involution of the Boer goat uterus is macroscopically complete by day 28 post-partum with the duration of the post-partum anoestrous period in the Boer goat being 55.5±24.9 days. The mean interval from partus to conception recorded, was 62.0±20.2 days. To optimise the reproductive efficiency in the Boer goat doe, it is essential that its reproductive potential be known and exploited.