EVALUATION OF A NON-TIMED ARTIFICIAL INSEMINATION PRACTICE APPLIED TO SUFFOLK EWES DURING EARLY BREEDING SEASON

The objective of this study was to determine if the AM/PM artificial insemination procedure in cattle works in sheep. Detection of estrus was done using vasectomized rams that were fitted with marking harnesses. Once detection occurred ewes were artificially inseminated 12 to 24 hours after detection. Artificial insemination occurred from August 24 until September 12, 2014 where a total of 49 Suffolk ewe were inseminate. Determination of ewes successful artificially insemination was done by use of a ram fitted with a marking harness and use of ultrasound equipment at completion of the project. It was concluded that there is no difference between artificial insemination at 12 hours or at 24 hours after detection of estrous.