Sexual Behavior of Large Domestic Farm Animals: An Overview1

The sexual behavior of large domestic farm animals is reviewed with particular emphasis on the role of behavior in animal production and the impact of animal management practices on the evolution, development and expression of sexual behaviors. Estrous behaviors are discussed in terms of their maturation and expression in virgin and postpartum females as well as their induction in seasonally anestrous animals. The effects of sexual behavior on conception is also noted. Current usage of the terms libido and mating efficiency in the context of male sexual behavior is critically analyzed. Information is presented here emphasizing the importance of early social experience and social dominance on the mating success of males as well as factors influencing mate selection and levels of sexual stimulation. Current developments in the use of serving capacity tests to evaluate and predict the sexual performance of male cattle and sheep is also reviewed. The effects of climate, nutrition and social stress on the sexual behavior of large domestic animals are addressed.