BEHAVIORAL TRENDS AFFECTING ESTRUS DETECTION IN ZEBU CATTLE

Factors affecting the accuracy of oestrus detection in Zebu cattle fol lowing natural or induced oestrus are reviewed. Special reference is g iven to the social interactions within a herd which affect the signs o f oestrus in this type of cattle. Group composition and size affect ac curacy in the timing of the observation of overt signs of oestrus with animals often imitating behavioural oestrus. The implications of thes e findings for the use of artificial insemination in the tropics are d iscussed.