Unit 5: Managing Herd Fertility and Replacements

Increasing conception rates

 

In a herd of 100 cows, 60% conception in each heat or oestrus would ensure only 3 barren cows in a 12 week service period (but 16 barren cows if the service period were tightened to 6 weeks – highlighting one possible drawback of trying to achieve very tight calving). 50% and 40% conception would result in 6 and 14 empty cows respectively over the same 12 week service period, highlighting the value of good conception.