Agricultural and Biological Research

Breeding practice, status of estrus synchronization and mass insemination of conception rate of dairy cattle in North Shewa Zone, Ethiopia

Sharew Mekonnen*, Simret Betsha and Sandip Banerjee

Background: Since 2004 up to this time there was many efforts were apply to improve local breed genetics through crossing with exotic breed using oestrus synchronization followed by mass insemination methods; however the status of Oestrus Synchronization and Mass Insemination (OSMI) conception rate related to breeding practice were not identified. So this study aimed to assess breeding practice and status of OSMI conception rate of dairy cattle.

Methods: Out of 27 districts, three districts and 405 respondents were selected purposive followed by random sampling techniques per each district.

Result: Most respondents used AI+natural mating system for the purpose of rapid genetic improvement moreover reproductive performance of dairy cattle per district and breeds was statistically significant. About 87% of respondents have not maintained mating and pedigree records. Heat detection problem, lack awareness about selection criteria of cows for OSMI program and AIT efficiency were the major factors of OSMI Conception Rate (CR). In conclusion the status of CR and number of service per conception per district, breed and year were vary (p<0.05) and finally the status of OSMI CR moderated from year to year.