02 August 2024

The latest on breeding and reproduction

This month’s Pig Edge is focusing on breeding and reproduction and Amy Quinn is joined by Teagasc Specialised Pig Advisor, Emer McCrum, to share her thoughts and experiences on the common themes and issues from around the country.

The discussion highlights several pressing concerns and practical solutions for improving farm productivity and profitability.

Impact of Empty Days

One takeaway from the podcast is the substantial economic burden of excessive empty days. Farms experiencing higher empty days face considerable costs, with a 700-sow herd incurring about €81 weekly, which adds up to nearly €10,000 annually. Moreover, these inefficiencies translate into lost revenue, as farms miss out on approximately 430 pig sales each year due to fewer productive days.

Breeding Performance

Current statistics reveal that the average number of empty days per litter stands at 15, surpassing the ideal target of 12. This gap highlights an opportunity for improvement. Reducing empty days is essential not only for cutting costs but also for boosting overall productivity. Implementing effective strategies to address this issue can have a significant impact on farm performance.

Reproductive Management

The podcast also addresses key challenges in reproductive management. While the average conception rate is a respectable 93.5%, there is notable variability between farms. This inconsistency highlights the need for improved management of issues such as silent heats to enhance overall reproductive efficiency. Proper timing of sow mixing and maintaining optimal housing conditions are also crucial. Farms should focus on timely observations of sows for signs of return to heat and ensure a comfortable environment to support better fertility rates.

By tackling these challenges, pig farmers can improve financial outcomes and enhance herd productivity.