A well-balanced feed strategy is critical to the quantity and quality of boar semen – and the future of the herd.
Boars are the smallest and perhaps the most overlooked group in pig production. Yet their semen has a critical influence on the overall performance of the herd, including the size of the individual litter. Genetics, housing conditions, semen collection management, and, particularly, the feed rank are among the key factors that ensure semen volume and quality.
During the growing period, boars have similar nutrient needs to gilts, which means feeding can be ad libitum feeding from 30-60kg. Up to a weight of 105kg, feed should be limited to 2.9kg a day to prevent unwanted lean meat growth and to improve leg strength. From then on, daily feed should be regulated according to body condition. The optimal daily gain level is 750-800g from 30-140kg of weight.
A breeding boar requires 2-2.5 kg concentrate per 100 kg weight depending on the age, condition and breeding demand. Feed allowances should be so adjusted that the pig is neither fatty nor run down. Greens should be provided if kept indoors. Year-round pasture is excellent if it could be provided from the stand point of providing both the needed exercise and valuable nutrients.