In winter and spring, the key to managing boars lies in maintaining proper nutrition, encouraging regular physical activity, and controlling breeding frequency. These factors are crucial for ensuring the health of the boar and the quality of his semen, which directly impacts reproductive success.
Boar semen is mainly composed of water and proteins, with the latter being essential for fertility. These proteins must come from the boar’s diet. Therefore, it's important to provide a sufficient amount of protein-rich feed, especially during colder months when natural food sources may be limited. Animal-based feeds such as small fish, shrimp, fishmeal, bone meal, blood meal, silkworms, and insects can serve as excellent protein supplements. Additionally, feeding 1–2 eggs daily can help meet the increased protein demands and improve semen volume.
Alongside protein, vitamins and minerals play a vital role in boar health. A balanced diet should include vitamin supplements and mineral feed to support overall well-being and reproductive function. It’s also important to ensure that green fodder and other fresh feed sources are available year-round to maintain digestive health and nutrient intake.
Lack of exercise can lead to obesity, which negatively affects libido and sperm quality. Regular movement helps keep boars fit, improves sperm vitality, and enhances breeding performance. It’s recommended to let boars walk or run 1–2 times a day for about an hour at a slow pace (2–4 km/h). During winter, it’s best to schedule this activity around midday when temperatures are warmer. However, during the mating season, the intensity and duration of exercise should be reduced to avoid fatigue.
Breeding frequency must also be carefully managed. Overbreeding can cause stress, reduce sperm count, and lower conception rates. On the other hand, long periods without breeding can lead to poor semen quality. A reasonable approach is to breed adult boars 4–5 times per week, while younger or reserve boars should be bred 3–4 times weekly. This balance ensures optimal reproductive performance and maintains the boar’s long-term health.
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