@article {3672,
	title = {Deer seasonal growth pathways},
	journal = {New Zealand Journal of Animal Science and Production},
	volume = {82},
	year = {2022},
	month = {01/2022},
	pages = {50-56},
	address = {Online},
	abstract = {Red deer are seasonal and generally experience a period of low growth in winter. Previous research has demonstrated that individuals vary in the degree of their seasonality. Mechanisms that drive the differences in seasonality are not well understood. Six sires paired by 12-month weight estimated Breeding Value (eBV) but with contrasting seasonality were used to generate progeny to investigate the mechanisms that influence seasonal growth. Progeny were fed ad-lib on pasture year-round to allow expression of genetic potential with liveweight monitored fortnightly. Feed intake and efficiency were estimated during a 10-day period in each season. Analysis of seasonal liveweight gains indicated that predicted seasonal growth rates were repeatable within sire lines. Significant differences within paired sire lines in growth rates were expressed during winter for the two lower 12-month weight eBV paired groupings. Winter intakes were estimated to be lower than spring intakes although absolute values were considerably higher than expected. Variations in estimated feed efficiency between sire-line pairings were significant in all seasons apart from summer however, more research is required to correlate this estimation technique against actual feed efficiency. This research demonstrated that variation in the degree of seasonality between sires does exist and could be exploited for management decisions.},
	issn = {1176-5283},
	author = {Thompson BR and Stevens DR and Ward JF and Dodds KG and Asher GW}
}
@article {3672,
	title = {Is there sire variation in seasonal liveweight gain of rising-yearling red deer?},
	journal = {New Zealand Journal of Animal Science and Production},
	volume = {81},
	year = {2021},
	month = {01/2022},
	pages = {186-189},
	address = {Online},
	abstract = {Red deer exhibit the greatest seasonal control of nutritional physiology of farmed ruminants in New Zealand, highlighted by seasonal inappetence during winter, present in all sex and age classes. Four years of data from 2048 DNA-pedigreed mixed-sex progeny of 112 sires and 1069 dams from a red deer breeding stud were interrogated to investigate the hypothesis of sire variation in growth across seasons in rising yearlings. Analysis used 17145 live weights from progeny with >= 4 live weights to a minimum of 300 days of age. Estimates of the weights of all animals at the same age were calculated by fittinga restricted maximum likelihood model to adjust for multiple variables and create sire best linear unbiased predictions of rising-yearling growth. Liveweight gain was examined at 11 key seasonal ages. While overall post-weaning variation in liveweight gain was low (CV = 3.6-4.7\%), for seasonal periods it was higher (CV 9.2-15.5\%), with the greatest variability during the winter period (CV = 15.5\%). Ranking sires by the predicted proportion of gained live weight of their offspring over seasonal periods showed sire variation across different seasons. Such variation may be beneficial allowing genetic selection of animals to fit dferent farm systems.Keywords: red deer; Cervus elaphus; seasonality; growth; live weight},
	issn = {1176-5283},
	author = {Ward JF and Cox NR and McMahon CD and Stevens DR and Asher GW}
}
@article {3672,
	title = {Deer Industry Advance Parties: farmer groups lead practice change for improved profit},
	journal = {New Zealand Journal of Animal Science and Production},
	volume = {80},
	year = {2020},
	month = {09/2020},
	pages = {161-165},
	address = {Online},
	abstract = {The NZ deer industry{\textquoteright}s {\textquoteleft}Passion2Profit{\textquoteright} productivity improvement programme, launched in 2013, established {\textquoteleft}Advance Parties{\textquoteright}
(APs) to improve profitability among New Zealand deer farmers. Animal performance on farms was highly variable, and sometimes
well below potential productivity, despite a large body of knowledge from prior research investments aimed at optimising animal
performance. APs are small groups of like-minded farmers focussed on helping each other implement changes in their businesses.
The benefits of these changes are disseminated to the wider deer farming community through various industry communications
and regional workshops. As of December 2018, there are 27 APs, with the aim for 30 on an ongoing basis, which would involve
approximately 350 deer farms. This paper describes the history, functioning and measured outcomes of APs within the New
Zealand deer industry.
Keywords: Deer Industry New Zealand; Passion2Profit; deer-farming practice change},
	issn = {1176-5283},
	author = {Moffat I and Asher GW}
}
@article {3672,
	title = {Evaluating anti-CarLA salivary IgA response in a deer progeny test},
	journal = {New Zealand Journal of Animal Science and Production},
	volume = {80},
	year = {2020},
	month = {09/2020},
	pages = {156-160},
	address = {Online},
	abstract = {Farmed red deer (Cervus elaphus spp) are susceptible to infection by nematode parasites. A salivary antibody (IgA) that is naturally
produced in response to exposure to a nematode parasite carbohydrate larval surface antigen (CarLA) can provide a protection
against gastro-intestinal nematodes in sheep and rising-yearling farmed red deer. The concentrations of this CarLA-IgA were
measured in saliva samples collected at 6 and 10 months of age, in 1531 rising-yearling progeny of 36 sires across three farms
during a three-year progeny test. The CarLA-IgA concentrations differed across sires, farms and years, with 6-month levels being
much lower than 10-month levels. Heritability estimates were low (h2=0.10) for 6 months, but moderate and significant (h2=0.37,
P<0.05) for 10 months. These two traits were highly genetically correlated (rg=0.86) and moderately phenotypically correlated
(rp=0.27). There were low (rp 0.08-0.13) but significant (P<0.05) favourable phenotypic correlations with spring and pre-slaughter
live weight, and with growth rate from 3 to 10 months of age and 6 to 10 months of age. Sire variation and heritability of 10-month
response indicates that it may have utility as a selection criterion for improved ability of farmed deer to cope with nematode
challenge.
Keywords: red deer; nematode parasite; carbohydrate larval antigen; immune; Cervus elaphus},
	issn = {1176-5283},
	author = {Ward JF and Wheeler M and Shaw RJ and Asher GW}
}
@article {3672,
	title = {Relationships between deer temperament and production traits},
	journal = {New Zealand Journal of Animal Science and Production},
	volume = {79},
	year = {2019},
	month = {07/2019},
	pages = {32-36},
	address = {Palmerston North},
	abstract = {It is well-recognised by producers that the temperament of farmed deer (Cervus elaphus spp.) influences how they respond to management practices, such as transport and yarding, but less is known about how temperament influences productivity. This study aimed to investigate relationships among temperament and production parameters by analysing a data set (n=1647) of rising one-year-old deer. Four production categories (growth, immune function, eye muscle and reproduction) and five measures of temperament were recorded from weaning until either pre-slaughter or after first mating (3 to 12 or 18 months of age) at different ages depending on the trait. Temperament traits had low heritability estimates (h2=0.01 to 0.17, P>0.05), indicating genetic selection for these traits would be slow. The temperament traits of animals were generally consistent from weaning (at 3 months) until slaughter (at 10-12 months). Animals that were calm and easy to handle grew faster and may have better immune function compared to animals that were more agitated in the presence of humans. More research is needed to investigate the relationships between temperament, immune function, reproduction and productivity in farmed deer. },
	issn = {1176-5283},
	author = {Ward JF and Sch{\"u}tz KE and Wheeler M and Asher GW}
}
@article {3672,
	title = {Reproductive performance of pregnant red deer hinds fed swede forage-crops in winter},
	journal = {New Zealand Journal of Animal Science and Production},
	volume = {78},
	year = {2018},
	month = {07/2018},
	pages = {165-169},
	address = {Lincoln},
	abstract = {Reproductive wastage is a significant cause of productivity loss in New Zealand deer herds. This study investigated the impact
on reproductive performance of red deer hinds fed swedes over winter. Forty rising-two-year-old and 40 mixed-aged pregnant
hinds were drafted into two groups each and grazed for 100 days over winter on either a swede forage crop or pasture. Hinds
were blood sampled regularly, weighed fortnightly and pregnancy scanned monthly. Blood samples were analysed for blood urea
nitrogen and indicators of liver damage. Swede forage crops were sampled for nutrient and glucosinolate concentrations. No
significant differences in hind foetal loss were found between the two wintering systems or two age classes. Swede glucosinolate
concentrations levels were above thresholds considered dangerous for animal consumption but no liver damage was observed.
Blood urea nitrogen levels did not differ between the swede- and pasture-fed hind groups until day 80, which was 10 days after
the swede groups were transferred to another swede crop, when blood urea nitrogen levels were significantly lower in the swede
groups. This research indicated that grazing on swedes did not influence reproductive wastage in this instance. However, the effect
of low protein intake over an extended period during pregnancy needs to be investigated further.},
	issn = {1176-5283},
	author = {Thompson BR and Stevens DR and Petit MA and Asher GW}
}
@conference {3672,
	title = {DEERSelect {\textendash} review of the first decade},
	booktitle = {Proceedings of the New Zealand Society of Animal Production},
	volume = {76},
	year = {2016},
	month = {07/2016},
	pages = {54-58},
	address = {Adelaide},
	abstract = {DEERSelect, the New Zealand deer industry performance recording system, has been operating since 2005 in red deer. Over that
period, the role and functionality of DEERSelect has grown, such that it is now central to all genetic information delivery to the
industry. Initially velvet and growth trait modules were included, with meat and reproduction trait modules added later. Economic
indexes were also developed, but have not been widely utilised. Evaluations were added for wapiti, to provide for all breed types.
Current desires are for wapiti and red deer to be combined in a single evaluation. Good genetic gains have been made, primarily in
growth traits. Impetus provided by the Deer Progeny Test (DPT), and increased breeder education has improved understanding of
best practice recording, leading to better data quality and herd connectedness. While DEERSelect is recognised by industry leaders
as being critical for genetic advancement, it still has limited stag-buyer adoption. Improved adoption will require a large extension
effort so commercial producers can interpret the impacts of breeding values in terms of changes in farm system performance and
profitability. The future is promising, with new traits, improvements on existing ones and breeders now valuing objective measures
of genetic merit.},
	issn = {1176-5283},
	author = {Ward JF and McIntyre SB and Newman S-AN and Asher GW}
}
@conference {3672,
	title = {Development and evaluation of a temperament-scoring system for farmed deer: genetic and environmental components},
	booktitle = {Proceedings of the New Zealand Society of Animal Production},
	volume = {76},
	year = {2016},
	month = {07/2016},
	pages = {109-103},
	address = {Adelaide},
	abstract = {A temperament-scoring system for farmed red deer was developed and evaluated. Hinds (n=1102) and their progeny (n=1609)
from three farms were repeatedly scored (7867 observations in total) for aggression, agitation in a pen or when confined in a
crate, ease of handling, and exit speed from a crate. The animals were scored when yarded for management procedures by one
handler. Inter-observer reliability recorded on a separate occasion was between 70 and 82\%, measured as percentage agreement.
For progeny, heritability was for aggression:0.03{\textpm}0.024, agitation (pen):0.23{\textpm}0.077, agitation (crate):0.17{\textpm}0.056, ease of
handling:0.10{\textpm}0.037, and exit speed:0.04{\textpm}0.021, with a repeatability of 0.19{\textpm}0.018, 0.24{\textpm}0.022, 0.25{\textpm}0.017, 0.24{\textpm}0.015, and
0.17{\textpm}0.013, respectively (estimate{\textpm}SE of estimate for all preceding values). For hinds, repeatability was for aggression:0.23{\textpm}0.048,
agitation (pen):0.16{\textpm}0.068, agitation (crate):0.38{\textpm}0.052, ease of handling:0.45{\textpm}0.048, and exit speed:0.27{\textpm}0.061 (estimate{\textpm}SE of
estimate), respectively. Animals that were agitated in a pen were also more agitated in a crate (r=0.352 and 0.479 for progeny and
hinds, respectively), all other associations were weak (r<=0.228). Farm, year born, age, and drafting order, but not sex, influenced
most temperament scores. Temperament of red deer can reliably be scored in a yard. Agitation showed a moderate genetic
component and could, therefore, be included in future breeding programmes.},
	issn = {1176-5283},
	author = {Sch{\"u}tz KE and Ward JF and Cox NR and Asher GW}
}
@conference {3672,
	title = {BRIEF COMMUNICATION: Developing genomic tools in the New Zealand Deer Industry},
	booktitle = {Proceedings of the New Zealand Society of Animal Production},
	volume = {75},
	year = {2015},
	month = {07/2015},
	pages = {91-93},
	address = {Dunedin},
	abstract = { },
	issn = {1176-5283},
	author = {Rowe SJ and Clarke SM and Van Stijn TC and Hyndman DL and Ward JF and McEwan KM and Dodds KG and McEwan JC and Newman S-AN and Asher GW}
}
@conference {3672,
	title = {Evaluation of production traits of red deer skins in the Deer Progeny Test.},
	booktitle = {Proceedings of the New Zealand Society of Animal Production},
	volume = {75},
	year = {2015},
	month = {07/2015},
	pages = {114-118},
	address = {Dunedin},
	abstract = { Skins, hides and leather from deer are a valuable co-product of New Zealand venison production. Measurement of skin traits was
included in the Deer Progeny Test to evaluate options for genetic selection, and to determine if selection for other production traits
risks diminishing the quality of deer skins and leather. Skins of slaughtered eleven-month-old progeny (n=310) from terminal
(wapiti crossbred) and maternal (red) sire types were evaluated for 18 different quantitative and qualitative traits throughout
processing to pearl-crust leather. All processing was carried out by New Zealand Light Leathers. All traits were analysed using
least squares means models with sire as the random term and pre-slaughter live weight as a covariate. For all traits except evenness
grade of the pearl-crust leather, the relationship with pre-slaughter live weight covariate was significant (p<0.05) and positive. Sire
had a significant effect (p<0.01) on eight traits including critical strength and finished-leather attributes (p<0.01), farm was also
significant for eight traits (p<0.01). Average skin thickness was similar to published values. Sire can have an effect on important
traits, and selection for higher slaughter weights of yearling red deer is predicted overall to increase the quality of skins and leather
produced.},
	issn = {1176-5283},
	author = {Ward JF and Mathias-Davis HC and Cooper SM and Crawford EM and Wheeler M and Asher GW}
}
@conference {3678,
	title = {Design and implementation of the Deer Progeny Test (DPT)},
	booktitle = {Proceedings of the New Zealand Society of Animal Production},
	volume = {74},
	year = {2014},
	month = {06/2014},
	pages = {220-225},
	address = {Napier},
	issn = {1176-5283},
	author = {Ward JF and Archer JA and Asher GW and Everett-Hincks JM and Mathias-Davis HC}
}
@conference {75872,
	title = {BRIEF COMMUNICATION: Voluntary food intake of pregnant and non-pregnant red deer hinds during the gestating period},
	booktitle = {Proceedings of the New Zealand Society of Animal Production},
	volume = {71},
	year = {2011},
	month = {Jan},
	pages = {53-55},
	publisher = {New Zealand Society of Animal Production},
	organization = {New Zealand Society of Animal Production},
	address = {Invercargill},
	abstract = {Efficient venison production systems rely on maximum growth of deer calves before their first winter. This is facilitated by an early conception in March for an October/November calving so that the nutritional demands of lactating hinds and their offspring are better aligned with pasture growth and quality under New Zealand lowland farming conditions. However, Scott et al. (2008) have...},
	issn = {1176-5283},
	author = {Scott IC and Barrell GK and Asher GW and Yuan JV}
}
@conference {42075,
	title = {Carcass and meat quality characteristics in young deer stags of different growth rates},
	booktitle = {Proceedings of the New Zealand Society of Animal Production},
	volume = {68},
	year = {2008},
	month = {Jan},
	pages = {174-177},
	publisher = {New Zealand Society of Animal Production},
	organization = {New Zealand Society of Animal Production},
	address = {Brisbane, Australia},
	abstract = {Fourteen male yearling red deer from the same cohort were included in this study. Seven of these animals were fast growing and reached slaughter live weight in late June (fast growing group), while the second group of seven deer did not reach slaughter live weight until early December (slower growing group). All animals were slaughtered according to standard protocol. Carcass composition was determined by computed tomography scanning. Water-holding capacity, meat pH, tenderness and sarcomere length were measured in samples (M. longissimus) at 1 day post slaughter and in samples kept in chilled storage at -1.5 {\textdegree}C for three weeks. Eating quality of the meat was evaluated in consumer preference tests. Slower growing deer were heavier (P = 0.02) and had more fat in the shoulder (P = 0.01) and loin (P = 0.001) cuts than fast growing deer. Meat from fast growing deer had lower pH values (P = 0.01), lower cooking loss (P = 0.04) and longer sarcomere lengths (P = 0.002) than slower growing deer. Consumers judged the flavour of venison from fast growing deer to be best (P = 0.005), although interactions between the sensory attributes and the consumer{\textquoteleft}s experience of venison affected their assessment. },
	issn = {1176-5283},
	author = {Wiklund E and Asher GW and Archer JA and Ward JF and Littlejohn RP}
}
@conference {41821,
	title = {Does calf genotype influence milk yield of red deer hinds ?},
	booktitle = {Proceedings of the New Zealand Society of Animal Production},
	volume = {68},
	year = {2008},
	month = {Jan},
	pages = {170-171},
	publisher = {New Zealand Society of Animal Production},
	organization = {New Zealand Society of Animal Production},
	address = {Brisbane, Australia},
	abstract = {New Zealand deer farming systems utilise Cervus elaphus subspecies and crossing genotypes is a common tool to gain a productive advantage. One of the most common crosses is that of a stag with a high content of North American Wapiti (C. e. manitobensis, nelsoni, roosevelti) over the traditional New Zealand (NZ) red hind of English or Scottish origin (C. e. scoticus) for venison production, with on the aim of attaining slaughter live weight ...Continued },
	issn = {1176-5283},
	author = {Ward JF and Archer JA and Asher GW and Barrell GK and Littlejohn RP}
}
@conference {41786,
	title = {Energy rather than protein content of hind intake determines growth rate of reed deer calves},
	booktitle = {Proceedings of the New Zealand Society of Animal Production},
	volume = {68},
	year = {2008},
	month = {Jan},
	pages = {45-46},
	publisher = {New Zealand Society of Animal Production},
	organization = {New Zealand Society of Animal Production},
	address = {Brisbane, Australia},
	abstract = {Live weight gain of red deer within the first 3 to 4 months of their life plays a major part in determining the efficiency of venison production systems. Over this period young deer are largely dependant on their dam for nutrition. It is often difficult to achieve growth rates greater than 400 g/d in New Zealand because red deer lactation coincides with deteriorating pasture quality. However, calf growth rates of up to 700 g/day have been achieved over late lactation when },
	issn = {1176-5283},
	author = {Scott IC and Archer JA and Asher GW and Stevens DR and Ward JF and Littlejohn RP and Lach JE}
}
@conference {41958,
	title = {Development of large scale commercial AI for genetic improvement in farmed red deer in New Zealand},
	booktitle = {Proceedings of the New Zealand Society of Animal Production},
	volume = {67},
	year = {2007},
	month = {Jan},
	pages = {82-90},
	publisher = {New Zealand Society of Animal Production},
	organization = {New Zealand Society of Animal Production},
	address = {Wanaka},
	abstract = {Experienced bovine AB technicians can be readily trained to successfully perform trans-cervical AI in red deer. Stags of all ages, including yearling spikers, can produce semen of acceptable quality and quantity at regular intervals from as early as February until mid-winter. Pregnancies rates to a single fixed-time insemination are typically 60-75\% with unknown herd factors contributing much of the variation. Yearling hinds are capable of acceptable pregnancy rates when inseminated in late February, at least a month earlier than is current practice. Within broad limits, considerable flexibility appears to exist when hinds are inseminated relative to the end of synchrony treatment.A deer-specific intra-vaginal progesterone-releasing device has been shown to provide higher terminal levelsof circulating progesterone compared with existing devices. Current field trials will determine its affect onpregnancy rates. We conclude that the genetic and reproductive technologies for increasing weight-for-age in deer have been successfully integrated and applied to commercial red deer in New Zealand.},
	issn = {1176-5283},
	author = {McMillan WH and Asher GW}
}
@conference {41705,
	title = {New perspectives on deer reproduction , growth and production efficiency},
	booktitle = {Proceedings of the New Zealand Society of Animal Production},
	volume = {67},
	year = {2007},
	month = {Jan},
	pages = {78-81},
	publisher = {New Zealand Society of Animal Production},
	organization = {New Zealand Society of Animal Production},
	address = {Wanaka},
	abstract = {Reproduction and growth intersect during lactation. Lactation is the period when the initial productivity of the calf is expressed and much ofthe potential production efficiency is set. Examples of recent advances in our understanding of productivity systems in deer farming are summarised. Experimentation in lactation has highlighted new information that can improve on-farm production. Recent research has given an understanding of the lactational outputs of the hind rearing either a red or F1 wapiti crossbred calf. Further experimentation has examined the role of protein and energy in determining calf growth. Other research has quantified both hind and calf intake and live weight change during late lactation. The impacts of these developments are discussed.},
	issn = {1176-5283},
	author = {Stevens DR and Asher GW and Archer JA and Scott IC and Ward JF and O{\textquoteright}Neill KT and Corson ID}
}
@conference {41866,
	title = {Development of a {\textquoteright}Wapiti Score{\textquoteright} visual assessment tool for determining introgression of Wapiti genes in young red deer},
	booktitle = {Proceedings of the New Zealand Society of Animal Production},
	volume = {66},
	year = {2006},
	month = {Jan},
	pages = {55-58},
	publisher = {New Zealand Society of Animal Production},
	organization = {New Zealand Society of Animal Production},
	address = {Napier},
	abstract = {Red deer are the predominant farmed breed type in New Zealand, but crossbreeding red females with wapiti (or elk) males in a terminal sire system is common. Introgression of wapiti genes into the national red deer breeding hind herd has been shown to have a negative impact on the pregnancy rate of 16-18 month old hinds. We devised a four point visual scoring system ({\textquoteleft}Wapiti Score{\textquoteright}), based on wapiti phenotype characteristics, for application to weaner (6-10 month old) red deer, to allow rapid detection of wapiti introgression. This scoring system was trialled and refined using 449 rising-one-year-old red deer of mixed genotype and sex on a commercial breeding and finishing farm, during three pelage phases. For a subset of 186 animals {\textquoteleft}Wapiti Score{\textquoteright} was compared to the DNA based GenomnzTM GenometerTM G3 Hybrid Test {\textquoteleft}Estimated Elk{\textquoteright} (EstElk), where EstElk; is the estimated proportion of wapiti (elk) genes in an individual animal predicted by the GenometerTM. A significant positive correlation (P < 0.05) was found between EstElk and {\textquoteleft}Wapiti Score{\textquoteright} for two independent observers, with an increase of one point in {\textquoteleft}Wapiti Score{\textquoteright} corresponding to an increase of approximately 0.10 in EstElk. The strongest correlation between Wapiti Score and EstElk were from the winter and spring scores. The effectiveness of Wapiti Score as a tool for classifying young deer by breed-type (red deer or wapiti ) was assessed using 0.2 EstElk as the breed-type threshold and comparing that against different selection Wapiti Scores (1-3). },
	issn = {1176-5283},
	author = {Ward JF and Scott IC and Asher GW and Littlejohn RP}
}
@conference {41908,
	title = {The influence of red deer genotype on conception pattern : Eastern vs Western subspecies},
	booktitle = {Proceedings of the New Zealand Society of Animal Production},
	volume = {66},
	year = {2006},
	month = {Jan},
	pages = {270-273},
	publisher = {New Zealand Society of Animal Production},
	organization = {New Zealand Society of Animal Production},
	address = {Napier},
	abstract = {Advancing the calving pattern of red deer from November/December to October/November would better align the nutritional demands of lactation to pasture quality and availability. This study investigated the hypothesis that red deer of {\textquoteleft}Eastern{\textquoteright} (E) genotype (Cervus elaphus hippelaphus) have advanced reproductive seasonality traits compared to those of {\textquoteleft}Western{\textquoteright} (W) genotype (C. e. scoticus). Hinds of E (135) or F1 (E x W; 165) genotype were single sire mated to one of 6 E stags, while W (506) hinds were single sire mated to one of 11 W stags. Reproductive seasonality traits measured were stag roaring and body condition score (BCS), and conception date as estimated by fetal aging. Peak roaring frequency occurred earlier in E than W stags (mean March total roars observed 144 vs. 68 for E and W stags respectively; SED 33.4; P },
	issn = {1176-5283},
	author = {Scott IC and Asher GW and Lach JE and Littlejohn RP}
}
@conference {41839,
	title = {Puberty in red deer hinds : (1) Onset of luteal and mating activity},
	booktitle = {Proceedings of the New Zealand Society of Animal Production},
	volume = {65},
	year = {2005},
	month = {Jan},
	pages = {306-311},
	publisher = {New Zealand Society of Animal Production},
	organization = {New Zealand Society of Animal Production},
	address = {Christchurch},
	abstract = {Pregnancy rate of yearling (15-18 months) red deer hinds may be influenced by time that puberty is attained, especially if stags are removed before all hinds have had a chance to conceive. This paper reports on two studies that investigated onset of puberty in red deer hinds. In Study 1, ovarian follicle populations and luteal activity of pubertal and adult red deer hinds were monitored for three months during their transition into the breeding season. Yearling (n = 5) and adult (n = 5) hinds were grazed in one group and weighed monthly. A fertile stag was run with them from 20 March until 11 May. Yearling hinds were significantly lighter than adults in March (85.8 vs 91.3 kg, SED = 2.1). There were no significant differences between yearling and adult hinds in mean day of first (14 April vs 8 April, SED = 3.5) or second (23 April vs 16 April, SED = 3.7) ovulations, or interval between ovulations (9 vs 8 days, SED = 0.7). First ovulation was invariably followed by a transient rise in plasma progesterone concentration and then a second ovulation preceded by oestrus. All hinds conceived to their first mating, demonstrating the ability of red deer hinds to exhibit high conception rates. In Study 2, daily observations for mating activity of yearling (n = 80) and adult (n = 80) hinds were carried out continuously from dawn until dusk for the period 25 March-27 April. Hinds were grazed on pasture in one of five single sire mating groups: Gp1, adults only (n = 40); Gp2, yearlings only (n = 40); Gp3, adults (n = 20) + yearlings (n = 20); Gp4, adults (n = 10) + yearlings (n = 10); Gp5, adults (n = 10) + yearlings (n = 10). Hinds were scanned by rectal ultrasonography to determine pregnancy status and estimate fetal age. Yearling hinds were significantly lighter than adults in March (101 vs 119 kg, SED = 1.3). The stag in Gp3 was replaced due to exhaustion and consequently, mean conception date of yearlings in that group was 16 days later than that of the yearlings in Gps 2,4 \& 5, which had a mean conception date 12 days later than that of the adults (1 May vs 15 April vs 3 April, SED = 1.1; P < 0.001). There was no significant difference between age groups in the number of non-pregnant hinds. These data indicate that yearling red deer hinds reach puberty and are mated in mid-April, about two weeks later than adult hinds. Conception failure was not a limiting factor to yearling reproductive performance; therefore, under standard farming conditions, it is unlikely that stags will be removed from the mating mob before yearling hinds have had a chance to conceive.
KEYWORDS: red deer hinds; puberty; reproduction. },
	issn = {1176-5283},
	author = {Scott IC and Asher GW and O{\textquoteright}Neill KT and Littlejohn RP}
}
@conference {41468,
	title = {Red deer as a novel ruminant model for nutritional and genetic influences on maternal expression of foetal and neonatal growth},
	booktitle = {Proceedings of the New Zealand Society of Animal Production},
	volume = {64},
	year = {2004},
	month = {Jan},
	pages = {39-42},
	publisher = {New Zealand Society of Animal Production},
	organization = {New Zealand Society of Animal Production},
	address = {Hamilton},
	abstract = {The red deer species (Cervus elaphus) is represented by morphologically disparate subspecies that freely crossbreed. All are highly seasonal breeders adapted to cold-temperate climates characterised by extreme annual oscillations in temperature and feed availability. Calves are born in summer following relatively long average gestation lengths of 234{\textendash}250 days (depending on subspecies), with >70\% of pregnancy mass acquired over spring/early summer.
The ability of the smaller red deer hind (100 kg) to successfully gestate, birth and rear crossbred (e.g. wapiti x red deer) progeny of 40\% increased foetal and post-natal growth potential is quite remarkable, and raises numerous questions about mechanisms of maternal and foetal control of reproductive processes. Recent research on moderate variations in late gestational nutrition to red deer hinds gestating red deer foetuses has revealed an interesting phenomenon in which nutritional influences on foetal growth trajectory appears to influence gestation length to ensure optimisation of birth weight (and, hence, neonate survival). This is quite contrary to expectations for sheep and cattle, but may have parallels amongst other wild ruminant species. Interestingly, hinds gestating crossbred (wapiti x red deer) foetuses of greatly increased growth potential appear unable to adopt such compensatory mechanisms, with hind under-nutrition leading to reduced birth weight relative to ad-libitum fed controls. These observations hint at some interesting and useful future research on mechanisms of maternal and foetal growth control in red deer. },
	issn = {1176-5283},
	author = {Asher GW and Archer JA and Stevens DR}
}
@conference {41452,
	title = {Approaches in developing a successful trans-cervical AI programme for farmed deer},
	booktitle = {Proceedings of the New Zealand Society of Animal Production},
	volume = {63},
	year = {2003},
	month = {Jan},
	pages = {258-261},
	publisher = {New Zealand Society of Animal Production},
	organization = {New Zealand Society of Animal Production},
	address = {Queenstown},
	abstract = {Trans-cervical artificial insemination (AI) in farmed deer has emerged as a highly successful reproductive tool that can rapidly increase rates of genetic gain in farmed deer. Conception rates in excess of 70\% are confidently achieved if all aspects of a simple programming prescription are followed. Hind nutrition, attention to hygiene and reducing individual animal and herd stress levels appear to be key factors, over and above that of semen quality and insemination skills. Many factors cumulatively affect success or failure within the typical eight week breeding season. Combinations of care and attention to detail are essential. This paper considers the interplay of these factors in advising choices made that underpin a successful trans-cervical AI programme based on commercial experiences. },
	issn = {1176-5283},
	author = {Rhodes L and Pearse AJT and Asher GW}
}
@conference {41449,
	title = {Reproductive productivity of young red deer hinds},
	booktitle = {Proceedings of the New Zealand Society of Animal Production},
	volume = {63},
	year = {2003},
	month = {Jan},
	pages = {243-246},
	publisher = {New Zealand Society of Animal Production},
	organization = {New Zealand Society of Animal Production},
	address = {Queenstown},
	abstract = {Reproductive productivity of rising-two-year old red deer hinds on New Zealand deer farms has been a prominent issue over the last 10 years. On average, 16\% of young hinds fail to establish pregnancy in their second year, although this figure masks wide between-farm variation. A growing body of ultrasound scanning data implicates failure of ovulation and/or conception at 16 months of age as the main influence on pregnancy rate. While such puberty failure in red deer has often been attributed to poor nutrition and failure of hinds to attain a critical threshold live weight of 65 -70 kg at 16 months, data on growth rates of young hinds from numerous farm monitoring programmes around the country largely debunk this concept. This paper reviews the potential causes of reproductive failure in young red deer, including the putative and actual influences of seasonal, social, stress and genetic factors on puberty failure. An emerging theme is the strong interplay of various environmental and genetic factors in determining the incidence of puberty. },
	issn = {1176-5283},
	author = {Asher GW}
}
@conference {41240,
	title = {The farming of game species .... horses for courses},
	booktitle = {Proceedings of the New Zealand Society of Animal Production},
	volume = {61},
	year = {2001},
	month = {Jan},
	pages = {38-41},
	publisher = {New Zealand Society of Animal Production},
	organization = {New Zealand Society of Animal Production},
	address = {Christchurch},
	abstract = {Pastoral-based animal industries utilise only a handful of domesticated species. The relatively recent development of farming "game" species (i.e., species traditionally harvested by hunting) has been largely prompted by changing first-world consumer demographics. Pastoral farming of red deer in NZ is often seen as a glowing example of diversification away from traditional livestock. In tropical regions, specific species adapted to local climate, vegetation and diseases include axis deer, sambar deer and rusa deer. In the arctic regions, reindeer are the species of choice due to their cold tolerance and food selection habits. Various species (e.g., antelope, buffalo, elephants, zebra, etc) form the basis of a growing game ranching industry in the dry savannah regions of Africa, structured around sustainable, low-density, multi-species grazing of rangelands that are generally unsuited to domestic livestock due to aridity or parasites/diseases (e.g., tsetse fly). Thus, there are many examples of successfully picking "horses for courses" ... game species suited to particular environments. Conversely, there is a danger that in the enthusiasm to promulgate particular systems around the world, there are occasions when "horses are on the wrong courses". Classic examples for this include attempts to farm (1) tropical species in temperate environments, (2) temperate species in tropical environments, and (3) species behaviourally and physiologically misaligned with pastoral environments. },
	issn = {1176-5283},
	author = {Asher GW and Pearse AJ}
}
@conference {41161,
	title = {Increased ovarian response following pre-synchrony of superovulated red deer (Cervus elaphus) hinds},
	booktitle = {Proceedings of the New Zealand Society of Animal Production},
	volume = {60},
	year = {2000},
	month = {Jan},
	pages = {65-67},
	publisher = {New Zealand Society of Animal Production},
	organization = {New Zealand Society of Animal Production},
	address = {Hamilton},
	abstract = {The effects of two modified superovulation protocols on ovarian response in red deer were compared to a standard protocol. Twenty mixed-age red deer hinds were allocated to one of three treatment groups during the breeding season: Group S (n=7) received our standard superovulation protocol of 12-days treatment with an intravaginal progesterone-releasing device (CIDR{\textquoteleft}, InterAg, NZ), eight injections of 0.45 mg ovine FSH (Ovagen, Immuno-Chemical Products Ltd., NZ) 12 h apart, beginning 72 h before CIDR removal with 200 iu eCG (Folligon, Intervet, Australia) added with the last injection. Group M1 (n=7) hinds received the same CIDR and eCG treatment, but Ovagen was delivered as four daily injections of 0.9 mg Ovagen dissolved in 30\% polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP-40; Sigma Chemical Co, USA). Group M2 (n=6) hinds were pre-synchronised using a 12-day CIDR{\textquoteleft} treatment and then received seven daily injections of 0.9 mg Ovagen dissolved in 30\% PVP beginning four days after CIDR removal. A prostaglandin analogue (2 ml Estrumate, Pitman-Moore NZ Ltd, NZ) was administered concurrent with the sixth Ovagen injection. Ovarian response was highest in M2 hinds. Mean ovulation rates ({\textpm}S.E.M.) were 4.9 {\textpm} 0.83, 3.4 {\textpm} 0.70 and 8.7 {\textpm} 1.20 for S, M1 and M2 respectively (P>0.05). Two S and three M1 hinds were anovulatory following superovulation treatment, but all M2 hinds ovulated (P>0.05). Pre-synchrony of red deer hinds before daily injection of Ovagen is an effective superovulation protocol. However, further work is required to ascertain if viable embryos are produced following the extended period of FSH exposure. },
	issn = {1176-5283},
	author = {Scott IC and Asher GW and O{\textquoteright}Neill KT and Littlejohn RP}
}
@conference {40511,
	title = {Effect of diluent and storage time on pregnancy rate in ewes after intra- uterine insemination},
	booktitle = {Proceedings of the New Zealand Society of Animal Production},
	volume = {53},
	year = {1993},
	month = {Jan},
	pages = {295-298},
	publisher = {New Zealand Society of Animal Production},
	organization = {New Zealand Society of Animal Production},
	abstract = {Liveweight gain, wool weight, wool characteristics, age of onset of oestrus and animal health data were recorded for purebred Awassi (n=37) and Coopworth (n=40) lambs in quarantine from birth to six months of age. No significant differences, between the Awassi and Coopworth lambs were recorded in: birth weight, liveweight gain (birth to weaning), and liveweight gain (weaning to 6 months). A trend for the Coopworths to have greater liveweight gains was noted. Significantly less wool was clipped from Awassi lambs (0.83 },
	issn = {1176-5283},
	author = {Smith JF and Asher GW and Briggs RM and Morrow CJ and Murray GR and Oliver JE and Parr J and Veldhuizen FA and Upreti GC}
}
@conference {40539,
	title = {Plasma concentrations of progesterone and luteinizing hormone during CIDR device insertion and the oestrous cycle of fallow deer (Dama dama)},
	booktitle = {Proceedings of the New Zealand Society of Animal Production},
	volume = {53},
	year = {1993},
	month = {Jan},
	pages = {417-422},
	publisher = {New Zealand Society of Animal Production},
	organization = {New Zealand Society of Animal Production},
	abstract = {Quantitative two-dimensional polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis has  been used to search for variation among liver proteins in flocks of sheep  which had been selected for either resistance or susceptibility to sporidesmin-  induced liver damage. The goal was identification of proteins whose DNA  sequences might be used to select animals for resistance to facial eczema.  The quantitative gel techniques were used because of their ability to detect  variability among many proteins in a single tissue sample. Differences in  relative proportion were tested for 62 proteins among 5 ewes from each of the  resistant and susceptible flocks. There were 7 proteins which showed  statistically significant differences (P<0.05) between the flocks. When an  analysis was made of changes in the relative proportions of proteins 2 days  after experimental challenge of resistant flock ewes (n=8) with sporidesmin,  0.13 mg per kg body weight, 25 of 79 liver proteins showed significant change  (P<0.05). This included partial loss of a 25 kDa, pI 5.7, protein which was  also three times more abundant in undosed susceptible than undosed resistant  females. These results are discussed in terms of the possible relationships  between protein variation and the magnitude of toxic tissue damage.  },
	issn = {1176-5283},
	author = {Morrow CJ and Asher GW and Smith JF and Veldhuizen FA}
}
@conference {40404,
	title = {Seasonal effects on the efficacy of intravaginal CIDR devices for oestrous synchronization of farmed fallow deer (Dama dama)},
	booktitle = {Proceedings of the New Zealand Society of Animal Production},
	volume = {52},
	year = {1992},
	month = {Jan},
	pages = {165-170},
	publisher = {New Zealand Society of Animal Production},
	organization = {New Zealand Society of Animal Production},
	abstract = {The production of the Woodlands high prolificacy flocks was  compared to industry control animals. Effects of the Inverdale gene  (FecX},
	issn = {1176-5283},
	author = {Morrow CJ and Asher GW and Smith JF and Jabbour HN and Mulley RC and McLeay LM}
}
@conference {40405,
	title = {Timing of the LH peak and ovulations in superovulated Coopworth ewes synchronised with progesterone-containing CIDR devices},
	booktitle = {Proceedings of the New Zealand Society of Animal Production},
	volume = {52},
	year = {1992},
	month = {Jan},
	pages = {171-174},
	publisher = {New Zealand Society of Animal Production},
	organization = {New Zealand Society of Animal Production},
	abstract = {A replicated trial with 4 stock rates of {\textquoteright}wet{\textquoteright} ewes (9.0, 10.5,  12.0, 13.5 sheep/ha) and 4 stocking rates of {\textquoteright}dry{\textquoteright} ewes (11.0, 13.5,  16.0, 18.5 sheep/ha) was established at the DSIR Grasslands {\textquoteright}Ballantrae{\textquoteright}  Hill Country Research Station to enable hill country farmers to make  informed decisions as to the economics of farming breeding or unmated  ewes.   Stocking rate had a large effect on liveweight throughout the year with  the greatest effect being in winter. Mean weaning weight of lambs was  25.4 kg at 9.0 ewes/ha and 19.7 kg at 13.5 ewes/ha.   Dry ewes grew more greasy wool/ha than wet ewes (P<0.05). Greasy wool  production ranged from 41.6 kg/ha at 9 wet ewes/ha to 81 kg/ha at 18.5  dry ewes/ha. At 13.5 sheep/ha dry ewes grew 28\% more greasy wool than  wet ewes which reared 1.2 lambs to weaning. November/December fleece  weight/ha was unresponsive to increasing stocking rate for both wet and  dry ewes (P<0.01). November/December fleeces were 18.6\% heavier from  ewes in paddocks having a sunny aspect than in paddocks with a  predominantly shady aspect (P<0.001). Slowest wool growth occurred  during August, being 5.3 to 8.3 mm/month and maximum wool growth  occurred during January within the range 17.3 to 18.5 mm/month.  },
	issn = {1176-5283},
	author = {Thompson JG and Simpson AC and James RW and Tervit HR and Asher GW and Peterson AJ}
}
@conference {40301,
	title = {Fertility of fallow deer (Dama dama) does following synchronisation of oestrus with CIDR devices or prostaglandin},
	booktitle = {Proceedings of the New Zealand Society of Animal Production},
	volume = {51},
	year = {1991},
	month = {Jan},
	pages = {147-152},
	publisher = {New Zealand Society of Animal Production},
	organization = {New Zealand Society of Animal Production},
	abstract = {244 cows managed as a single herd were divided into 4 balanced  groups. Group A was milked once daily for the last 89 days of  lactation, Group B 61 days and Group C 33 days. All cows including a  control group milked twice daily, were dried off on the same date.  After culling using commercial criteria the remaining 192 cows were  milked twice daily in the subsequent lactation.   Within one week of imposing once daily milking, daily yield of milk,  fat and protein fell by 14.6-11.4\%, 10.6-8.5\% and 8.8-4.0\% respectively  when compared to twice daily milked cows. Once daily milking increased  protein concentration and somatic cell counts. The relative falls in  production observed seven days after the imposition of treatment  remained until drying off with consequential reductions in total yield  over the period of treatment.   Once daily milking reduced the rate of liveweight loss in late  lactation. Differences of up to 12.4kg liveweight remained between  groups prior to calving in the subsequent lactation, but no differences  could be detected after calving. Improve reproductive or productive  performance was not observed in the subsequent lactation.  },
	issn = {1176-5283},
	author = {Jabbour HN and Veldhuizen FA and Green G and Langridge M and Asher GW}
}
@conference {40206,
	title = {Developments in artificial insemination and controlled breeding in dairy cattle and deer in New Zealand},
	booktitle = {Proceedings of the New Zealand Society of Animal Production},
	volume = {50},
	year = {1990},
	month = {Jan},
	pages = {123-134},
	publisher = {New Zealand Society of Animal Production},
	organization = {New Zealand Society of Animal Production},
	abstract = {A number of techniques for directly manipulating the mammalian   germline have been established in the mouse. During the past five years   these have been applied to domestic livestock but, so far, only   pronuclear microinjection has proved successful. The considerable   resources required and the low efficiency of the procedure are major   limitations and, worldwide, relatively few laboratories have produced   transgenic livestock. In applying rtransgenic technology to farm   animals, a major effort has gone into the manipulation of growth. This   is a complex trait and progress has been constrained by the inability to   control the expression of transgenes in a precise manner, and by the   lack of basic knowledge at the interface between molecular biology and   physiology. By contrast, the production of biomedical proteins from   transgenic animals involves the manipulation of a relatively simple   trait, milk composition. So far, only relatively low levels of protein   production have been reported for transgenic sheep. However, very high   levels of expression of human a1-antitrypsin have been obtained in   transgenic mice, demonstrating the feasibility for this application of   transgenic animals.    },
	issn = {1176-5283},
	author = {Macmillan KL and Asher GW}
}
