Effective use of artificial insemination as an ex situ conservation method for the capercaillie

Abstract

With the threat of extinction looming over many species, the development of assisted reproduction techniques for use in conservation programmes is imperative. This work explores the feasibility and efficacy of artificial insemination in the capercaillie (Tetrao urogallus), a species in critical danger of extinction. Nine young, male birds were used as sperm donors for five young females. Three of the females laid 19 viable eggs, of which 13 were fertilized (68%). This research contributes to the scientific understanding of the capercaillie's reproductive biology and provides practical insights that could be instrumental in the conservation and recovery of the species.