Elements and Performance Criteria
- Make arrangements for natural mating
- Check breeding records for stallion and mare reproductive histories
- Select breeding stallions and mares for natural mating based on breeding history and other workplace records
- Bring animals into optimal breeding condition by providing and adjusting nutrition and exercise
- Assess breeding health and conformation of stallions and mares, and take action to maximise fertility and breeding performance
- Prepare facilities and equipment for natural mating
- Monitor reproductive behaviour in stallions and mares
- Observe stallion behaviour for signs of reproductive activity and factors that can reduce fertility, and make arrangements for collecting semen according to workplace procedures
- Collect and analyse semen to assess fertility, and store to maintain viability
- Observe mare behaviour for signs of oestrus and determine timing for natural mating
- Manipulate oestrus to meet breeding program and other requirements
- Manage stallion breeding schedule to maximise fertility
- Complete records