Accurate heat detection is the key to successful AS. Oestrous detection needs to be carried out slowly and
methodically each and every day. Twice daily oestrous detection is prffferabie.. as it does identify the onset of
oestrous more accurately though on outdoor systems this it not always practical. To achieve easier detection, boar contact should only toe provided when the-stock ' person is present.
Essential steps for good oestrous detection:
WEANED SOWS
Learn to recognise signs of proestrus e.g. swollen
vulva, restlessness, looking for the boar, sows
riding each other (see Appendix 2)
Keep good records- be observant for signs of
oestrus
Develop a "bond" with the animals - patient and
calm approach B Check for oestrus daily using a boar. Check twice
per day where possible, allowing 7 hours
minimum between checks
Boars must be interested and "chatty". Allow
them a natural service occasionally
Boar presence allowing nose-to-nose contact
between boar and sow together with stimulation
by the stockperson
Develop a system/routine for each new service
week (see centre spread flow chart)
Direct boar contact at weaning and for the first three days
after will quieten sow group and stimulate oestrus -
rotating boars will help this process
Segregation/removal of boar presence at the end of day 3
Will heighten sows response to the boar when oestrous
detection starts on day 4 onwards. Boar introduction
(carried out in the presence of thestockperson) causes
oxytocin release by the sow.
Use the back pressure test at the same time as the
renewed boar presence, together with flank pressure to
determine start of standing oestrus
Be patient, allow time for a proper response by the sow B A specialist detection/insemination pen is essential which
allows a maximum of two sows at a time to be brought
from the weaning pen to the boar for oestrous detection
Do not take the boar to the sows - take the sows to the
boar Record response - develop a coloured marking system for future reference
Check for returns daily - observe any restless sows riding other sows
Take boar into possible return pen daily around return date 18-24 days following service. Allow a minimum of five minutes for the boar to scan the sows with the stock-person present.
GILTS
All oestrous identification procedures for sows apply equally to gilts. On many units, gilts are the forgotten part of the herd. Remember they are critical to both the short and long-term success of the herd, as they not only help hit the current service target but are also the next generation of sows. In addition remember:
Gilts will cycle at any time over a 21 -day period (even
weekends). Commence boar stimulation at least 21 days
before the required date for service
Take a boar daily to the gilt pool and allow him to mix
with the gilts under stockperson supervision for a
minimum of 10 minutes
Record and mark any gilt showing signs of standing
oestrus. This will aid selection of available gilts for service
21 days following and highlight gilts not cycling.
