A study of methods for the detection of oestrus in red deer hinds (Cervus elaphus) : A dissertation submitted in partial fulfilment of the requirements for the degree of Bachelor of Agricultural Science with Honours at Lincoln College

Abstract

Several parameters were evaluated in red deer hinds for their potential in methods of oestrous detection for this species. The parameters evaluated were based on: sexual behavioural activity concentrations in blood serum of progesterone and oestradiol, rectal temperature, cervical mucus ferning patterns, vaginal cytology, and electrical resistance of vaginal mucus. All measurements were recorded daily in 4 mixed-age adult hinds from 21 March 1984 until 30 April 1984. None of the parameters indicated unequivocally when any of the hinds were in oestrus. However histological examination of the vaginal epithelial cells did reveal a cyclic pattern of staining and cytology which corresponded in length to that of an oestrous cycle. Further research will be required to evaluate the potential of this parameter for its usefulness as an indicator of oestrus in red deer.