AI Services & Breeding Technicians

What Are AI Services?

Artificial insemination (AI) services provide professional breeding using semen from selected bulls. AI technicians handle semen storage, thawing, and insemination using proper technique and timing. Many farms use technicians rather than performing AI themselves to ensure high conception rates and proper semen handling.

Types of AI Services

Technician Services

Professional AI technicians visit farms on schedule or on-call to breed cows in heat. They bring equipment and may supply semen or use farm-owned inventory. Technicians often serve multiple farms on daily routes.

Genetic Company Technicians

Major AI companies (Select Sires, Genex, ABS) employ technicians who provide breeding services while promoting their genetics. May offer breeding advice and genetic planning.

Veterinary Services

Some veterinary practices include AI as part of their reproductive services, combining breeding with pregnancy checks and reproductive troubleshooting.

What Makes a Good AI Technician?

• Technical skill: Proper semen handling and insemination technique
• Timing: Inseminating at optimal time relative to heat detection
• Record-keeping: Accurate documentation of breeding events
• Reliability: Consistent availability when cows are in heat
• Communication: Reporting issues and working with your team

Factors Affecting Conception Rate

Technician skill matters, but conception rates depend on many factors:

• Heat detection accuracy and timing
• Cow body condition and health
• Semen quality and handling
• Environmental conditions (heat stress)
• Nutrition and metabolic status

Training Your Own Staff

Some farms train employees to perform AI rather than using outside technicians. This requires:

• Formal AI training courses (typically 2-3 days)
• Practice and skill development
• Proper equipment and semen storage
• Commitment to technique and record-keeping

Cost Considerations

AI service charges typically range $8-20 per breeding visit, often plus semen costs. Compare technician fees against the cost of training staff and maintaining semen tanks. Factor in conception rates when evaluating service value—a skilled technician may justify higher fees through better results.