Nurturing The Matriarchs

Picture: Mauritzfontein broodmares (Picture: John Lewis)

As the 2024 breeding season hits its stride, stud farms across the country are faced with important decisions—particularly regarding their older broodmares. For many of these seasoned mares, retirement is inevitable, while a select few, still in good health and condition, may have the chance for one final cover before their well-earned rest.

The fertility of broodmares peaks when they’re between the ages of six and 10. Studies shown that both pregnancy and foaling rates decline significantly after the age of 12. Mares of 20 years old or older can still give birth to foals, but the fertility decreases every year. An aged mare that has recently had a foal has a greater chance to become pregnant again than a +mare of similar age that has remained barren despite being bred over multiple oestrous cycles.

READ CHARL PRETORIUS’ OFF THE RECORD ARTICLE ON THIS TOPIC – CLICK HERE