Theory question 108
Animal ReproductionExplain briefly four of the following terms in animal production:
(a) oestrus cycle
(b) heat period
(c) gestation period
(d) parturition
(e) colostrum.
Show the model answer
Model answer
Any four:
(a) Oestrus cycle: the interval from the start of one heat period to the start of the next (about 21 days in cattle and pigs, 17 in sheep)
(b) Heat period (oestrus): the short time when a female is willing to accept the male for mating (about 12–24 hours in cows)
(c) Gestation period: length of pregnancy, from conception to birth (cow about 283 days, sow 114 days)
(d) Parturition: the act of giving birth
(e) Colostrum: first milk produced after birth; rich in antibodies, proteins and vitamins; laxative; protects the newborn
Explanation
One short definition with an example figure each.