Abstract
Following lambing in mid-January, 42 Finn Dorset ewes, each suckling two lambs, were divided into three groups ( n = 14/group), synchronised in oestrus and inseminated at 28, 35 or 42 days post-partum. At insemination the involuting uterus was by-passed by injecting semen, under laparoscopic visualisation, directly into the tip of each uterine horn. Fertilization rates were determined on Day 6 (Day 0 = oestrus) and fertilized ova were immediately returned to the uterus from which they were recovered. Of the 12, 11 and 11 ewes which were subjected to ova recovery in the 28-, 35- and 42-day groups, respectively, 9, 6 and 8 yielded eggs. Fertilization occurred in 5, 6 and 6 of these ewes, which resulted in 0, 4 and 1 pregnancies being maintained to term. Previous litter size and time of insemination in relation to oestrous onset had no effect on ova recovery rates, fertilization rates or the maintenance of pregnancy.
Published Version
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call