Thompson's tip: Heat stress in boars

Boars used both for natural service and AI need careful management in warmer weather. Heat stress reduces quality of semen, warns Paul Thompson, veterinary consultant to pig-breeding company, ACMC.

The temperature at which this occurs varies from boar-to-boar but can start from around 25ºC. The temperature in boar houses should therefore be monitored. If ambient house temperatures are high supplemental cooling is advised e.g. by drip-lines, misting or washing down passageways to increase evaporative cooling and introducing some airflow across the pigs.

Semen quality can be adversely affected for up to six weeks after hot weather.