Boar management and use technology
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With the advancement of industrialization and large-scale pig farming, artificial insemination has become a standard practice in modern swine production. A critical component of this process is the management and utilization of breeding boars, which directly impacts the success of artificial insemination. Drawing from extensive data and practical experience, this article provides detailed insights into the proper handling and use of breeding boars for reference by industry professionals.
First, it's essential to follow specific rules when using boars. Boars between 8 and 12 months old should be used three times per week, mating with one sow each time. For boars over 12 months, the frequency increases to five or six times per week, with two sows per session. After each mating, the boar must rest for at least one day. If a sow has been bred once or twice but still shows signs of estrus, and the boar refuses to mate, it should not be replaced immediately. Special attention should also be given to signs of heat stress or reduced libido, as these indicate the need for rest.
Monitoring the return rate of sows after 18–24 days and confirming pregnancy at 30 days is crucial. These indicators reflect the boar’s overall health and fertility. Young boars under 12 months may not yet be fully mature, and overuse can lead to lower fertility, mating rates, and litter sizes. To optimize fertility, it's important to allow the boar to rest between 20–24 hours after two consecutive breedings, ensuring a more effective ejaculation and higher sperm density.
Boar usage records should be maintained to track frequency and ensure balanced workload. Regular monitoring helps identify when rest is needed, promoting better management and productivity. Weekly estrus checks require consistent boar availability, so their rest periods must be carefully scheduled. Evaluating boars regularly and using the results to improve breeding programs is key to maintaining high performance.
Boars that are sick, weak, or show slow breeding behavior should be rested. Excessive use or signs of fatigue also necessitate rest, as overworking them can reduce fertility. Typically, a boar rests for 1–7 days, but if due to illness, it may need up to four weeks. Healthy boars should not be rested for more than two weeks, as prolonged rest can cause temporary infertility.
Heat stress significantly affects semen quality. Boars are highly sensitive to high temperatures, and since sperm development takes about 40 days, even short-term heat stress can have long-lasting effects. This can result in decreased motility, total sperm count, and increased abnormalities. Preventive measures include adjusting airflow, using cooling systems, preparing equipment in advance, scheduling breeding early in the day, and timing matings during optimal times.
Trial boars, often vasectomized, are used for estrus detection and false mating. They stimulate the sow’s reproductive tract without causing pregnancy. These boars should be handled carefully, and any that are unhealthy or lack sexual desire should be removed. Despite their lack of fertility, they must still follow boar safety protocols.
Training and handling boars properly is essential. They are intelligent animals and can develop both good and bad behaviors. Aggressive treatment can make them dangerous and hard to manage. Always approach boars with caution, especially around their heads, and avoid standing directly in front of them. Proper training involves gentle handling, regular interaction, and a balanced approach of kindness and discipline.
In summary, effective boar management is vital for successful artificial insemination. By following best practices, monitoring health, and ensuring proper rest and care, farmers can maintain high fertility rates and overall productivity in their breeding programs.