Figure 3. Note position of the operator's right hand. The white area between the thumb and forefinger is semen flowing from this male chicken
Points to Remember
• Stimulate males and collect semen immediately after catching. Holding a male, even a tame one, for only a few minutes may interfere with collection.
• Successful semen collection usually results from an experienced operator and an experienced subject.
• First attempts at "working" inexperienced males often produce unsatisfactory results. Some males pass feces or urates as they discharge semen. Try to collect only semen; contaminated semen usually produces poor results. Withhold water and feed four to six hours before collection to lessen chances for contamination.
• The volume of semen discharged varies from bird to bird. Most males produce between 0.1 cc and 0.44 cc during each successful collection.
• Individual males vary considerably in time needed to replenish their semen supply. Normally, however, you can collect semen every two to four days without harming the birds.
• Use the semen as soon as possible. It can be held one or two hours without great loss in fertilizing capacity, or longer under controlled conditions. Don’t allow the semen to dehydrate and keep it below the body temperature of the male that produced it.