Effects of rectal and ambient temperatures and humidity on conception rates

Abstract

One hundred and thirteen inseminations were performed for which rectal temperatures were taken at the time of inseminations. Climatological factors were also recorded daily. Pregnancy diagnosis by rectal palpation was carried out 3 months post-insemination. Pregnancy rates for all services were related to selected climatological measurements and rectal temperatures. The results obtained indicate that elevated rectal temperature, mean maximum and mean minimum temperatures and relative humidity were detrimental to conception. The effect of the climatological factor on conception is compounded by feed scarcity during the dry periods of the year.