Biology of reproduction and artificial insemination of Timor deer (Cervus timorensis)

Abstract

Timor deer (Cerrnus limoremis) is the native tropical deer in Indonesia and is one of 20 wild animals which have been domesticated fairly recently for meat production (Kyle, 1994). As a newly domesticated fm animal which is highly potential and prospective as a source of animal protein, efforts should be taken into account to increase its population and productivity through the application of appropriate reproductive technology, particularly artificial insemination (Al). Prerequisite for the application of A1 technology in timor deer is an intensive study of its biology of reproduction. A series of research activities have been conducted to study the biology of reproduction and AI of the tirnar deer, encompassing the pattern of antler developmental cycle in relation to testosterone hormone profile and sperm production of the stag, anatomy of reproductive organs of the stag and hind, semen characteristics. preservation, and cryopreservation of the tirnor stag semen, estrous cycle and profile of the hind steroid hormones, estrous synchronization and insemination of timor hinds using frozen-thawed semen of the stags.