Ram mating performance in Border Leicesters and related breed types. 2. Comparison of the performance of rams that were sexually active and inactive in pen tests

Abstract

The mating performances of 15 rams which were initially sexually inactive were examined by allowing them constant exposure to three oestrous ewes per day. Two rams did not mount or serve any ewes in 17 days of exposure. When the 13 remaining rams began to raddle ewes their mating performance was compared with that of active rams. Active and inactive rams raddled and inseminated similar numbers of oestrous ewes, suggesting that inactive rams are adequate performers at loads of three oestrous ewes per day once they commence mating. Over a total of 12 h direct observation, however, inactive rams performed significantly fewer mounts and serves than active rams.