Talking teasing and the role of the brain in sheep reproduction with Graeme Martin

This week Mark Ferguson chats with Emeritus Professor Graeme Martin about the role of the brain in sheep reproduction and how teasing works. 

Graeme has had a long and distinguished career in sheep reproduction. He was raised on a sheep and cereal farm in Western Australia. After studying at university, Graeme went on to complete a PhD in the area of sheep reproduction. He then worked in France and Scotland before returning to Western Australia in the mid-1980s as Lecturer in Animal Science (The University of WA) and Research Scientist (CSIRO Division of Animal Production). He continued to focus on sheep reproduction throughout his career, specialising in the 'male effect'. 

Graeme has since retired from teaching but continues to develop the science of reproduction and how this can apply to farmers. 

Mark and Graeme's conversation covers what goes on internally in the ewe to trigger ovulation, as well as what happens in the ram. Knowing the science behind the 'male effect' enables you to tease your ewes more efficiently to get the best results. 

This is a fascinating podcast with Graeme sharing a lifetime's worth of knowledge and research. 

Head Shepherd is brought to you by neXtgen Agri International Limited. 

We help livestock farmers get the most out of the genetics they farm with. Get in touch with us if you would like to hear more about how we can help you do what you do best: [email protected].

Thanks to our sponsors at MSD Animal Health and Allflex, Heiniger Australia and New Zealand, and ProWay Livestock Equipment. Please consider them when making product choices, as they are instrumental in enabling us to bring you this podcast each week.

Check out the MSD range HERE

Check out Allflex products HERE

Check out Heiniger's product range HERE

Check out ProWay's product range HERE