Abstract

The objective of this review is to discuss the history, importance of Artificial Insemination (AI), semen collection and deposition techniques, physiology of cockerel reproduction, characteristics and chemical components of chicken semen, semen storage, and evaluation of semen, semen extenders and behavior of sperm in the oviduct. The first AI in poultry was reported in 1936. All of the avian male reproductive system is inside the bird unlike the males of mammalian species. Avian semen contains energy source to help the viability of semen for AI. For the purpose of in vitro storage semen extenders with appropriate osmolarity and source of energy can be used. Abdominal massage method is the most common technique to collect semen. The technique involves restraining the male and gently stroking the back of the bird from behind the wings towards the tail with firm rapid strokes and gentle squeeze to extract the semen. There are two methods of semen deposition in poultry. These methods are the Intra-peritoneal insemination and vaginal insemination. Vaginal insemination is the commonly used method. It involves everting (turning inside out) the cloaca to expose the reproductive tract of the female.

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