Artificial Insemination and Embryo Transfer in Deer

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With the increasing attention on optimising performance in our deer herds, the use of additional tools should certainly be considered to improve reproduction performance. The Vet Centre works alongside breeding companies to develop a protocol specific for your farming operation. There are two different methods of improving reproductive performance - artificial insemination and embryo transfer.

Artificial Insemination (AI)

This involves a CIDR insert (controlled internal drug release) being used for 12 days and upon removal, an injection of eCG is given. All hinds are inseminated with AI 54-58 hours later. This protocol allows hinds in the programme to be synchronised and for all to be mated at the same time.

  • The expected conception rate varies; between 65-75%. Most breeding places would sell semen to use. The majority of semen used is locally collected (in the region or elsewhere in NZ).

  • The timing of AI is critical; it needs to be in the natural breeding season (late March/early April) and needs to align well with feed supply for your farm.

  • Advantages include: using specific stags semen, not necessarily having to have the stag on farm, being able to use semen across more hinds to mention a few.

Embryo Transfer

This involves a CIDR insert (controlled internal drug release) being used for 12 days. In the days leading up to and after CIDR removal, hinds are injected with FSH every 12 hours. This allows hinds to superovulate and release more eggs than they usually would. They are then mated (naturally or via AI). Then 7 days after mating, the fertilised eggs (now embryos) are harvested from a single donor and inserted into numerous recipients.

  • The conception rate varies too: 65-75% would be for most.

  • The average embryos harvested from a donor is between 4-7 embryos. We usually work on having 6 to 7 recipients for each donor.

  • Advantages include: shortening generational gaps, utilises better animals genetic and increasing their number of offspring and suitable for disease control.

Most people utilising these programmes would be velveting operations and/or trophy farms. However there is real potential to use this for venison operations. These could be considered for next season now. We would be more than happy to help.