First off I would like to know has anyone used frozen semen? If so did it work by getting the sow/gilt pregnant? Also I've been reading about how the number of piglets born alive goes down with frozen semen, is that true? If frozen semen is a good avenue to explore, what kind of equipment do I need and where is a good place to buy it from?
Thanks in advance for an advice and input!
Freezing Semen
Re: Freezing Semen
I've done it. Semen is supposed to be viable for 8-10 hrs instead of longer with fresh. This means wait 10-12 hrs longer on first dose compared to fresh and give 2nd dose 8-10 hrs later instead of 18-24. I've found it really helps to know the estrous cycle of the female you are breeding. There are 3 studs that sell frozen straws. SGI probably has the best instructions getting started although PSSS has a video to watch. You'll need a liquid nitrogen tank to store it. $500-700 for that plus recharging every 4-5 months at $25-50 a time. The good thing is you can get good boars during off season for lower prices by buying the whole collection and having it frozen.