A complete breeding soundness exam is quite possibly the most cost-effective management tool that a producer can implement. A bull or ram with decreased fertility can cost breeders time, money, and in extreme cases an entire calf/lamb crop: all of which are avoidable with routine screening of males before the breeding season.   Decreased fertility or serving capacity of the ram or bull can lead to lower conception rates and pregnancy rates in affected flocks and herds. A complete breeding soundness exam 30-60 days prior to the breeding season can alert producers to problems with the male and prevent substantial pregnancy loss due to bull or ram fertility problems.   Complete Breeding Soundness Exams include the following: 1. Physical Exam of the male (eyes, feet, legs, mouth, external genitalia, palpation of the testicles, and in the bull palpation of the internal reproductive organs, etc). 2. Scrotal Circumference Measurement (testicles descended completely and measured around the widest point of the testicles) 3. Ejaculation of the male and collection of a semen sample. 4. Microscopic Motility and Morphology evaluation of the semen. Bulls and rams must pass each category before being deemed a satisfactory breeder. In certain cases patients may be deferred and a retest recommended.   Dr. Andy and Katherine Meadows e-mail address: SpringwoodLivestockMgt@worldnet.att.net phone: (540) 254-2710   © 2001-1998. All Rights Reserved. Designed and Developed by Breeders' World. The First Complete Online Livestock Breeders Directory.