Semen Collection, Spermatozoa Cryopreservation, and Artificial Insemination in Nondomestic Birds

Abstract

Semen collection and artificial insemination have made important contributions to the breeding of avian species in captivity. These techniques have been successfully used primarily in breeding programs of rare and endangered species and in the production of hybrid falcons for the sport of falconry. Semen samples are collected from nondomestic birds by using the cooperative, massage, and electroejaculation methods. After semen collection, insemination is done by the simple process of transferring semen samples directly into the oviduct of the hen. Freshly collected semen samples also can be diluted to obtain the desired spermatozoa concentration for multiple inseminations or for short-term and long-term storage. This paper reviews the different methods used for semen collection, techniques for semen dilution and preservation, and use of artificial insemination in nondomestic birds.