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Buck effect as a method for estrous synchronization of goats

This article presents the synthesis of the research performed within FP7 FLOCK-REPROD project. The buck effect is the deliberate introduction of males among previously isolated females, in order to induce and synchronize heat. To improve its efficiency, it may be combined with photoperiodic treatment and/or with injection(s) of prostaglandin depending on planned season of reproduction. The bucks used for male effect have to meet following requirements: age 2-6, at least one period of mating, good health and body condition, well fed, well-expressed libido, prepared with photoperiodic treatments to be sexually active at time of introduction. Also, bucks should not undergone any technical (hoof trimming) or medical (vaccination, deworming) treatment one month before introduction. The males must be equipped with an apron to prevent unwanted mating. Males and females should be separated for at least two months before the planned date of male introduction (no sight, hearing, smell and touch). This applies to all males above 3 months of age. The animals should be housed in separate barns at least 100m distance. Bucks should be introduced respecting optimal ratio of 1:10. Daily rotation of the bucks, unrestricted contact 24/24h between males and females must be used to maintain optimal female stimulation until AI or mating. When buck effect is implemented with photoperiodic treatment, males should be introduced in the group of females 60 days after the beginning of the short day treatment. Between the 1st and the 5th day after introduction, the females may express estrous behavior linked to non-fertile short cycles, so heat detection is performed starting 5 days after introduction to determine the optimal timing of AI or hand mating.

male effect; buck; goat; estrous synchronization; photoperiodic treatment

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