Insemination data is significant for the purpose of genetic evaluations for fertility & gestation lengths. This includes whether the cow repeats or holds to that serve. It also gives the farmer expected calving dates as well as accurate fertility reports which are extremely useful for management purposes. Heats that are observed outside of the breeding season can also be recorded.
Insemination details can be recorded on the ICBF database including date of service, bull used and type of semen (e.g. sexed or non-sexed). Some AI technicians operate handhelds which automatically send details to ICBF. Stock bull serves can also be recorded by entering the bulls tag number or short code in place of an AI code.
Below are several methods of recording inseminations onto the database:
- Online recording through ICBF website – log-on using your username and password. Go to ‘Record Events’ → ‘Heat & AI/Serve’ and enter details accordingly.
- Online recording through HerdPlus App
- Farm Computer Packages
- Technician AI handhelds – If your AI technician has a handheld device, the serves will be automatically sent to the ICBF database. Where your technician does not have a handheld device, you will need to ensure that insemination data is sent to ICBF via one of the other methods.
- Animal Events Book