This document discusses various methods of estrus detection in farm animals. It begins by defining estrus as the period when female animals become sexually receptive. Accurate estrus detection is important for achieving optimal fertility and conception rates. Common methods mentioned include using identification tags or markings and keeping daily records through heat expectancy charts, breeding wheels, or computer programs. Additional aids discussed are mount detectors, tailhead markings, activity monitors, and vaginal probes. Regular observation and record keeping are emphasized as the foundation for a successful reproductive program.

1. METHODS OF ESTRUS DETECTION
IN FARM ANIMALS

2. Estrus
Estrus or “heat” is a period during the
reproductive cycle when female animals
become sexually receptive.

3. Objectives
Failure to detect estrus (heat) is a major factor
contributing to low fertility.
Estrus detection is the foundation for a
successful reproductive program.
And hence it is essential for breeding of
female animals at proper time to achieve
optimum conception rate.

4. PRE- REQUISITES
• Clear identification of
individual animal with
freeze brands, collars &
large ear tags.
• Adequate lighting to aid
identification.
• Permanent record of
cow’s identity at the
time of observation.

5. • Regular routine of at least
three 20 to 30 minutes
observations throughout 24
hrs, at times other than
milking.
• Adequate areas with
enough space & a good
floor surface to enable the
cows to express estrus
behaviour. Cow with large ear tag for easy
identification.

6. Estrus symptoms in cattle
Standing and mounting activity
Chin resting and trailing activity.

7. String of clear mucus being
discharged

8. ESTRUS DETECTION AIDS

9. ESTRUS DETECTION AIDS
1. Record systems
2. Mount detection aids
3. Heat detector animals
4. Vaginal electrical resistance
5. Activity monitors
6. Hormonal assays

10. Record systems
• The record systems should be used on a daily
basis and the information in the records
should be posted and made available to all
farm employees.
• Heat expectancy chart
• Breeding wheel or herdex record system.
• Computer generated action lists

11. HEAT EXPECTANCY CHART
• Special calendars are available from artificial
insemination organizations.
• Most charts are organized on a 21-day cycle so
that future heats can be anticipated.
** Some herd managers mark day 19 following insemination so
that the expected heat can be anticipated several days in
advance.

12. BREEDING WHEEL OR HERDEX RECORD
SYSTEM
These wall-mounted reproductive record
systems use color-coded pins or markings to
indicate reproductive events for each cow.

13. COMPUTER GENERATED ACTION LISTS
Dairy management computer programs can
generate listings of cows that require special
attention or action on a specific day.

14. Mount detection aids
Kamar pressure- sensitive
mount detectors:
 This device contains a red
dye, and is glued on the
tail-head between the pins
and hooks of the cow.

15. Heatwatch
• Heatwatch is mounted on the
tailhead
• Records the number of times
female in heat was mounted
• Also records the time that has
elapsed since the first mounting
• The information can be sent to a
computer database

16. Tailhead markings
2. Tailhead markings:
Marking the tailhead with
chalk, paint, or crayon and
observing for evidence of
rubbed off or smeared
markings on the body of
the animal.
It is cost effective method of
estrus detection.

17. Chin ball

18. Electronic mount detectors
Electronic mount detectors:
 The video camera(s)/ closed
circuit television with time-
lapse video should be fixed to
monitor a large proportion of
the housing area.
 It is expensive to install but is
quite effective when used
selectively.

19. CIDR- Rs. 650 each Vat-5.5%
Applicator - Rs. 1080 each Vat- 5.5%
10 ml lutalyse – Rs. 410 each Vat- 5.5%

22. Vaginal electrical resistance probe
Vaginal electrical resistance
probe.
Electrical resistance (ER) of vaginal fluids
decreased during proestrus and through the
estrous period.
Should be checked every 12 hours
Lowest reading always coincides with
standing heat
Time consuming, labor intensive, expensive
Improved version: Miniature electronic
devices.

23. Activity monitors
PEDOMETERS:

24. conclusion