Synchronisation Program for Angora Goats
By Dr Mackie Hobson BSc(Agric),BVSc

1. Reproduction

Preparation of rams:

The quality and quantity of semen produced are influenced by the nutritional level of the ram.

• Mineral vitamin supplements at about 9 weeks before mating/semen collection. ( Zinc, Selenium, Vitamin E and Vitamin A)
• The aim is to have rams in an excellent body condition (body condition (BCS) score between 3 and 4 out of 5
• The rams could be exposed to mature synchronised ewes for four weeks before semen collection. Photoperiod plays a role in the quality and quantity of spermatozoa produced.

Preparation of the ews:

• Ewes should have a body condition score (BCS) of at least 2.5 on a scale out of 5, six weeks before.
• From six weeks before the date of artificial insemination should have a rising plain of nutrition.
• For an artificial insemination program, it is preferable to use ewes that have kidded at least once and to avoid using ewes older than 7 years of age.

PROTOCOLS:

1. 17-day (traditional protocol)
2. 9-day (short protocol) programs

Grootfontein Agric 2020, 20(1), 15-27 Snyman, M.A. & Jooste, F.18

1. 17-day protocol (traditional protocol)

a.) Trans-Cervical Insemination

b.) Laparoscopic insemination

2. 9- day protocol

a.)Trans-Cervical Insemination

b.) Laparoscopic insemination

*PMSG (Pregnant Mare Serum Gonadotropin) 200IU, some producers will use 150-180IU to reduce number of twins

The results of the 2016-trial at Grootfontein the shorter 9-day synchronisation cycle yielded better conception results when using CIDRs in Angora goats than the longer 17-day cycle.

According to Rahman et al. (2008), the shorter 9- to 11-day progesterone treatment is widely used in goats. No difference in scanning and kidding results was obtained between one or two inseminations at GSAS. In contrast, Yotov et al. (2016) reported 5 to 7% higher conception rates with two vs. one

REFERENCE:

SEMEN FREEZING AND SUBSEQUENT INSEMINATION RESULTS IN SOUTH AFRICAN ANGORA GOATS

M.A. Snyman1# & F. Jooste2

1 Grootfontein Agricultural Development Institute, Private Bag X529, Middelburg (EC), 5900

2GeneCo, Small Stock Reproduction Centre, P.O. Box 37, Philipstown, 8795