welters Heritage Galloway cattle breeding programme

image_pdfimage_print
Blizzard conditions ensue as the naturally insulated heifers patiently await insemination
Blizzard conditions ensue as the naturally insulated heifers patiently await insemination

March 2018 began with selected heifers from welters® award winning Galloway cattle herds undergoing artificial insemination (AI ) procedures in readiness for calving in late Summer.

AI technician performing the delicate insemination process
AI technician performing the delicate insemination process

This breeding programme is an important part of welters® ongoing commitment to protecting native species and resources in the UK.

The process is carried out by a skilled AI technician to ensure a good success rate within the herd.

A fully mature Galloway heifer will normally be in estrus or ‘heat’ every 18-24 days and it takes an experienced herdsman to spot when the cow is displaying heat signals and to plan the AI procedure accordingly.

Timing is crucial as the heifer will begin ovulation towards the end of the heat cycle, which only provides a short window of 12-18 hours to inseminate.

The procedure is over quickly and is not stressful for the animal
The procedure is over quickly and is not stressful for the animal

With such a time-critical process, there can be no delays and even sub-zero temperatures, the worst winter in decades and the coldest March on record will not prevent the welters® intrepid and dedicated farm staff from completing this important work.

The farm is looking forward to the new Galloway additions joining the herd later in the year, ensuring good breeding stock for the future.

 

The post welters Heritage Galloway cattle breeding programme appeared first on Latest News.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published.