Behavioral indicators to detect ovarian phase in the dromedary she-camel

Area of Science:

• Animal Behavior
• Reproductive Physiology
• Veterinary Science

Background:

• Detecting the ovulatory phase in female camels is crucial for efficient breeding programs.
• Visual observation of behavioral estrus signs can be unreliable.
• Objective indicators for estrus detection in camels are needed.

Purpose of the Study:

• To test if female camels exhibit different behaviors during various ovarian phases when exposed to a male.
• To identify specific behavioral patterns indicative of the ovulatory phase in camels.
• To validate behavioral observation as a tool for estrus detection in dromedary camels.

Main Methods:

• Twenty-four female camels were monitored over three weeks.
• Transrectal ultrasonography determined ovarian phases (ovulatory vs. nonovulatory).
• Behaviors were recorded via video during 15-minute exposures to a restrained bull, analyzed using a standardized ethogram.

Main Results:

• Ovulatory phase camels showed significantly higher interest in the male, spending more time near him and interacting more frequently.
• Female camels in the ovulatory phase tended to lie down in front of the bull.
• A higher 'male time score' was associated with the mature follicular ovarian phase.

Conclusions:

• Female camels exhibit distinct behaviors correlating with their ovarian phase.
• Behavioral monitoring in the presence of a male camel can reliably indicate the ovulatory phase.
• These findings support the use of behavioral observation for optimizing dromedary camel breeding and artificial insemination timing.