Precision breeding: Sexed semen and strict selection shape Dermot’s AI plan

With calving wrapped up for another year, Dermot's focus has shifted to breeding the next generation of his herd.

Dermot Walsh on the farm at Currihy, Lisevane, Timoleague, Co Cork. Picture: David Creedon

I started breeding on April 28. I am doing selective breeding. Cows were picked out using the female selector in Sire Advice on ICBF. Cows selected with high EBI, positive for health, above 0.15 for fat and above 0.1 for protein PD. These cows will get sexed semen. 

I have picked out 30 cows for sexed semen. Cows ideally had to be calved more than 42 days and had one heat prior, no issues at calving such as milk fever or retained cleanings. These cows also had to have gone in calf to one previous straw in the previous lactation. The cows receiving sexed semen were inseminated on natural heat.