Animal breeding Books

Book SynopsisThe Sunday Times bestseller following the inspiring story of life as a shepherdess, by the star of Channel 5’s Our Yorkshire Farm.Amanda Owen has been seen by millions on ITV's The Dales and Channel 5's Our Yorkshire Farm, living a life that has almost gone in today's modern world, a life ruled by the seasons and her animals. She is a farmer's wife and shepherdess, living alongside her husband Clive and seven children at Ravenseat, a 2000 acre sheep hill farm at the head of Swaledale in North Yorkshire. It's a challenging life but one she loves.In The Yorkshire Shepherdess she describes how the rebellious girl from Huddersfield, who always wanted to be a shepherdess, achieved her dreams. Full of amusing anecdotes and unforgettable characters, the book takes us from fitting in with the locals to fitting in motherhood, from the demands of the livestock to the demands of raising a lTrade ReviewRiveting. * Sun *Enchanting. * Daily Mail *Table of ContentsIntroduction - i: Introduction Chapter - 1: A Normal Childhood Chapter - 2: Wild Oats and Wool Sacks Chapter - 3: One Woman and Her Dog Chapter - 4: Ravenseat Only Chapter - 5: Hill Shepherdess Chapter - 6: Married in My Riding Boots Chapter - 7: Reuben Ready or Not! Chapter - 8: Miles To Go Chapter - 9: Edith On the Way Chapter - 10: Our Little Flower Chapter - 11: Clive’s Big Break Chapter - 12: Free-range Children Chapter - 13: Sidney in the Snow Chapter - 14: Annas Makes Seven Acknowledgements - ii: Acknowledgements Section - iii: List of Illustrations

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Book SynopsisBringing together the experience of three top academic experts in breeding procedure, this up-to-date second edition of Managing Breeds for a Secure Future examines breeding and genetics at a level accessible to all. This new edition has been revised to cover emerging debates in animal breeding and includes domestic species such as dogs and horses. The authors skilfully use a clear discussion of theoretical genetics to explain its practical applications to a wide audience of livestock and domestic animal breeders. Specific examples are provided throughout to illustrate how decisions regarding breeding and management relate back to genetic theory. Advice is given on all areas pertaining to the process of responsible breed management from selecting pairs and mating systems to registry functions and long-term management. Current topics of interest covered include: breeding for robustness and disease resistance, international movement of livestock, and preserving endangered breeds. Breed associations are also discussed in depth with particular emphasis on how reducing common conflicts can secure the future of breeds for generations to come. This practical book offers a comprehensive examination of breeding practices aimed at livestock and dog breeders of all abilities and experience levels. The first edition was published by The Livestock Conservancy.

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Book SynopsisAn accessible, practical resource for pasture-based rabbit production-complete with rabbit husbandry basics, enterprise budgets, and guidelines for growing, processing and selling rabbits commercially. In recent years, there has been talk in the food world that rabbits make more sense than chicken. In a country with a $41 billion broiler chicken industry, this might seem like a pretty bold statement, but it’s hardly unsubstantiated. And yet while media has been abuzz about the supposed super protein, very few farmers are stepping up to meet the rapidly increasing interest in sustainably raised rabbit meat. This is partly due to the lack of available resources in the field of rabbit husbandry. Raising Pastured Rabbits for Meat is the first book to address the growing trend of ecological rabbit husbandry for the beginning to market-scale farmer. Inspired by Daniel Salatin, who has long been considered the pioneer in integrated rabbit farming, Nichki Carangelo proves that a viable pasture-based rabbitry is not only possible and user-friendly, it’s also profitable. In Carangelo’s approach, happy, healthy rabbits are seasonally raised outside on pasture, using a pasture and wire hybrid system that promotes natural behaviors and a diverse diet, while effectively managing the associated risks. Raising Pastured Rabbits for Meat offers valuable information on how farmers can build their own rabbit enterprise from scratch and includes tips on breed selection, breeding techniques, nutrition guidelines, record keeping tools, slaughtering and butchering instructions, marketing advice, and enterprise guides to help farmers plan for profitability. This is an essential guide for anyone interested in integrating rabbits onto a diversified farm or homestead.Trade Review“Nichki Carangelo’s Raising Pastured Rabbits for Meat is like a long chat with a warm and generous friend who’s sharing advice based on her own experience, hard won from both her successes and her mistakes (which you won’t have to repeat). Her approach is pragmatic and flexible, never doctrinaire. Perhaps her best advice is to avoid rabbit ‘monoculturing,’ which is only likely to succeed at an unattainably large scale, and instead to make your rabbit marketing venture an integral part of a diverse and adaptable small farm.”—Harvey Ussery, author of The Small-Scale Poultry Flock“Raising Pastured Rabbits for Meat covers some of the ups and downs of a rabbit-raising start-up, as well as the emotions and real-life mistakes tied to starting a farm. Overall it’s a well thought out introduction to pasture-based rabbit production for beginners.”—Daniel Salatin, Polyface Farm“They’re cute, fluffy, and one of the world’s most sustainable sources of meat. Yes, rabbits can make an excellent food source and income stream for a diversified family farm or homestead. Farmer and author Nichki Carangelo clearly lays out the essentials you need to start, manage, and grow a meat rabbit business in a way that not only generates income but also treats the animals humanely. There isn’t another book out there like this on the subject.”—Rebecca Thistlethwaite, author of The New Livestock Farmer“As a rabbit farmer and chef who prizes rabbit as a heritage ingredient, I’ve been encouraged to see more farmers, cooks, and consumers rediscovering the benefits of pastured rabbit in recent years. With this book Carangelo provides a growing community of small-scale producers with an essential road map for the journey of launching a small rabbitry into a successful business and long-lasting, nourishing resource.”—Mike Costello, chef and farmer, Lost Creek Farm

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Book SynopsisBefore crude oil and the combustion engine, the industrialized world relied on a different kind of power - the power of the horse. Horses in Society is the story of horse production in the United States, Britain, and Canada at the height of the species' usefulness, the late nineteenth and early twentieth-century. Margaret E. Derry shows how horse breeding practices used during this period to heighten the value of the animals in the marketplace incorporated a intriguing cross section of influences, including Mendelism, eugenics, and Darwinism.Derry elucidates the increasingly complex horse world by looking at the international trade in army horses, the regulations put in place by different countries to enforce better horse breeding, and general aspects of the dynamics of the horse market. Because it is a story of how certain groups attempted to control the market for horses, by protecting their breeding activities or 'patenting' their work, Horses in Society providTrade Review"This handsome book offers a telling glimpse into the often-charged world of horse breeding and horse trading in North America and Britain between 1800 and 1920." -- Lawrence Scanlan The Globe and Mail "A full and complex picture of horse culture." -- Karen Raber American Historical Review "Although draft animals have often been treated as footnotes to the rise of the machine, Margaret Derry demonstrates how a detailed treatment of horses can deepen the historical understanding of American and European societies." -- George B. Ellenberg "Horses in Society is a lucid and thoughtful journey into the world of the horse at its short-lived zenith, and of the society that honoured and sustained it." -- Max Foran University of Toronto Quarterly "Margaret E. Derry's Horses in Society is a remarkably interesting read ... This is a ground-breaking work that will resonate with social, business, and military historians alike." -- Warren M. Elofson Business History Review "An extremely valuable book that brings the history of science to bear on horse-breeding literature and sets both within the context of modern political economy." -- Ann N. Greene Canadian Historical Review "Horses in Society is a valuable contribution that will interest historians of science and technology, military historians, and anyone interested in the history of animals, economics or the nineteenth century in general." -- Darcy Ingram Scientia CanadensisTable of ContentsAcknowledgments Introduction * Modern Purebred Breeding: A Scientific or Cultural Method? Part One. The Breeding of Horses * The Light Horse * The Heavy Horse * The Farmer's Horse Part Two. An International Horse Market: The Remount Story * Finding Horses for the British Army * American Horses and War: A National and International Issue * Canada's Equine War Effort: A Story of Conflicting Interests Part Three. Governments and Horse Improvement * Understanding Heredity: The 1890 Report of the British Royal Commission on Horse Breeding * Producing Better Horses in the United States: Attempts to Control Fraudulent Activity and Market Share * The Canadian Experience in Horse Regulation: Continental and National Concerns Part Four. Society and Horses * Aspects of a Pervasive Horse Culture in Society Conclusion Notes Note on Sources Index

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Book SynopsisThe first edition of The Small-Scale Poultry Flock helped thousands of small-scale farmers and smallholders adopt a practical model for working with chickens and other domestic fowl based on natural systems. In this expanded and thoroughly revised edition, readers will find plenty of all-new material. Author Harvey Ussery introduces readers to his new favorite breed of chicken, Icelandics; describes how he manages his breeding flock using a clan mating system; presents detailed information on the use of trapnests and record-keeping spreadsheets for evaluating breeding hen performance; and provides step-by-step instructions for construction of an ingeniously designed mobile poultry shelter. Readers will also find fully updated information and tips on all aspects of flock management, including: growing (and sourcing) feed on a small scale cultivating earthworms and grubs as high-protein poultry feed brooding (and breeding) at home implementing manure management using electric net fencing for ranging flocks using poultry as insect and weed managers in the garden and orchard enlisting your chickens as garden tillers and compost-makers protecting the flock from predators keeping the flock healthy working with mother hens In The Small-Scale Poultry Flock, Revised Edition Ussery presents a sustainable and ecologically friendly model that can be adapted to a variety of scales. His advice and examples throughout the book will prove invaluable for beginner farmers, growers looking to incorporate poultry into their programme and experienced farmers looking to create a truly sustainable system.Trade Review“Ussery provides an encyclopedia of chicken and other fowl care, encompassing everything from anatomy and species selection to feeding, breeding, and selling in the local market. . . . Altogether, there’s no better introductory reference on the joy of home-raising chickens.” —Booklist“Written by a self-described ‘old hick with chickenshit on his boots,’ The Small-Scale Poultry Flock is a welcoming and decisive guide to the poultry-keeping experience. Harvey Ussery’s natural approach is that of a partnership with his flock, in what he terms ‘an integrated food independence enterprise.’ The author shares straightforward, encouraging information written from the viewpoint of someone who desires to share the knowledge that has come out of three decades of hard-won experience. Anyone considering a natural approach to producing eggs and meat will cherish this must-have reference, enjoyable to sit down and read cover-to-cover, but also perfect for answers on the go.” —Foreword Review“As usual, Harvey never ceases to amaze with his in-depth knowledge of poultry keeping. I love that, as knowledgeable as he is, he still constantly searches for new ‘tweaks’ to improve his farm efforts and the quality of life for his birds. He writes from that direct experience and it certainly shows in this wonderful go-to book for any aspiring poultry keeper. So many people claim to be chicken husbandry experts, but Harvey, he’s the real deal.” —Jeannette Beranger, senior program manager, The Livestock Conservancy“Harvey Ussery has spent a lifetime developing and showcasing a truly viable poultry model that is ultimately carbon-sequestering, hygienic, neighbor-friendly, and food-secure. . . . This book is about a call to heritage, to the wisest of wise traditions in food security and relationships. Harvey brings the latest tools and practices within the grasp of any aspiring flockster. It is this functional spirit that makes this book a classic in the small-scale poultry rearing genre.” —Joel Salatin, Polyface, Inc.“Amid the new and urgent focus on holistic, inputs-free food production married to ecologically robust land management, this expanded edition of Harvey Ussery’s classic guide to all things chicken should have a place on every small farm or homestead bookshelf. Dedicated to the conviction that what is best for the animal and the land will always be best for the farmer, Ussery points the novice ‘flockster’ toward best practice, while he inspires the long-time poultry keeper with a deeper commitment to ecological cooperation.” —Shawn and Beth Dougherty, authors of The Independent Farmstead“Here’s the ultimate book for those who want to know everything there is to know about raising poultry. And every detail is backed up by the author’s own (often entertaining) experiences. I could not find—in this encyclopedic array of chicken knowhow—one detail that I could quibble with.” —Gene Logsdon, author of Letter to a Young Farmer and Holy Shit“The Small-Scale Poultry Flock is the perfect book for all chicken keepers, from the folks just starting out to the most experienced. It covers everything from the history of the species and coop designs to feeding, breeding, keeping predators at bay, processing meat, and much more. Harvey’s writing style is easy going and feels like an old friend giving you sound advice. This is a comprehensive resource to keep on your bookshelf for many years to come.” —Jessi Bloom, author of Free-Range Chicken Gardens; coauthor of Practical Permaculture“It is refreshing and inspiring to read a book on chickens that has original content and creative techniques. This can only come from personal insights and hands-on experience. Harvey Ussery eloquently describes how to keep and employ a family flock of chickens. “Chickens have migrated with humans for over 3,000 years all over the planet. It’s time to bring them back home. Let them work in our communities and production gardens where they can feed not only themselves and humans, but also the soul and soil of Nature, enabling an abundant ecology. Food security with a consistent supply chain can be as close as your own backyard. Just read and use the practices described in The Small-Scale Poultry Flock. You will not be disappointed. High fives to Harvey!” —Pat Foreman, author of City Chicks; founder, The Gossamer Foundation“This book is packed with practical advice on raising poultry by someone who has not only done it all but has learned from his broad experience and knows how to communicate that wisdom clearly and in a lively, readable style. Harvey Ussery has written one of the most comprehensive guides out there, but what places it above the rest of the crowd is that he shows you how to work with nature rather than against it in ways that will minimize work while ensuring the health and happiness of the flock. Whether you're a beginner or an old-time poultry farmer, you shouldn’t go any further without this excellent manual.” —Toby Hemenway, author of Gaia’s Garden and The Permaculture City“The Small-Scale Poultry Flock is about establishing a free-range poultry flock fully integrated into a healthy homestead ecosystem. Based upon the author’s decades of hands-on experience with many breeds and species, it covers all the basics about raising poultry, and fills some important gaps not usually covered well enough elsewhere, including chicken behavior, poultry breeding, raising chicks with broody hens, managing free-ranging, dealing with predators, using electric net fencing, feeding poultry with home-grown feeds, and integrating the poultry with soil mineral balance, gardens, lawns and pastures, orchards, worm bins, and soldier fly (larvae) production. If you want to raise chickens and can afford just one book, I recommend this one.” —Carol Deppe, author of The Resilient Gardener“Ussery’s outstanding book is certain to withstand the test of time both for its encyclopedic and practical information, and for its acknowledgment that the future of our culture and our food security is in the hands of the small farmer and backyard producer. If you are starting out with your first flock, this is your book. And when you’ve been keeping poultry for 30+ years, this will still be your best book.” —Shannon Hayes, author of The Grassfed Gourmet Cookbook and Radical Homemakers“Anyone interested in practical, experienced, insightful information about how to select, breed, care for, manage, feed, protect, process, eat or market small-scale poultry flocks for their own eating pleasure or selling to others—and have FUN—should read this book.” —Frederick Kirschenmann, distinguished fellow, Leopold Center for Sustainable Agriculture; author of Cultivating an Ecological Conscience“There is a revolution going on, and it is the popular return of keeping poultry to provide food for our home tables. Ussery’s The Small-Scale Poultry Flock helps lead the way by integrating the small flock with its natural environment, the homestead, or small farm. Nowhere else will you find such valuable information on putting poultry to work in the garden, producing much of their feed, and producing healthful food for ourselves.” —Don Schrider, author of the American Livestock Breeds Conservancy’s Chicken Assessment for Improving Productivity and Storey’s Guide to Raising Turkeys "The Small-Scale Poultry Flock is an indispensable guide for homesteaders or market growers interested in doing it right. . . .[And] the revised edition packs in even more information than the original.” —Hobby Farms

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Book SynopsisBreeding Better Dogs: Genetics and Reproduction delves into the biology of managing reproduction in dogs, from mating to whelping and the first few weeks of life. It also delves into the genetic management of dog breeds and selection procedures to aid breeders in producing sound, useful dogs. The book includes: details of managing the genetic structure of breeds and genetic management of individual breeding programs details of managing dogs that are used for breeding details of mating dogs, managing pregnancies and whelping This book is an excellent resource for dog breeders. Providing an accessible approach to a complex subject, Breeding Better Dogs breaks down into digestible chunks the essential information for understanding the subject at a broad level.

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Book SynopsisTable of ContentsPart I. Undergirding themes 1. Importance of physiology of birds 2. Avian genomics 3. Transcriptomics of physiological systems 4. Avian Proteomics 5. Avian metabolomics 6. Mitochondrial physiology 7. Evolution of birds 8. Domestication of poultry Part II. Sensory biology and nervous system theme 9. The avian somatosensory system: a comparative view 10. Avian Vision 11. Avian Hearing 12. Avian olfaction and other chemical reception (excluding taste) 13. Avian taste reception 14. Avian nociception and pain 15. Magnetoreception and its use for long distance migration 16. Avian subpallium and autonomic nervous system Part III. Organ system theme 17. Blood 18. The cardiovascular system 19. Osmoregulatory systems of birds 20. Respiration 21. Gastrointestinal anatomy and physiology 21A. Intestinal villi and crypt organization and function 22. Bone 23. Skeletal muscle 24. The avian immune system Part IV. Metabolism theme 25. Carbohydrate metabolism 26. Adipose tissue and lipid metabolism 27. Protein metabolism 28. Food intake regulation Part V. Endocrine theme 29. Overview of avian neuropeptides and peptides 30. Pituitary gland 31. Thyroids 32. The role of hormones in the regulation of bone turnover and eggshell calcification 33. Adrenals Rocco 34. Endocrine pancreas Part VI. Reproductive theme 35. Reproduction in the female 36. Reproduction in the male 37. The physiology of the avian embryo Part VI. Cross-cutting themes 38. Stress Eco-physiology 39. Physiology of welfare/wellbeing of poultry 40. Reproductive Behavior 41. Physiology of growth 42. Circadian rhythms 43. Circannual cycles and photoperiodism 44. Annual cycles 45. Regulation of body temperature: patterns and processes 46. Flight 47. Physiological challenges of migration 48. Actions of toxicants and endocrine-disrupting chemicals in birds

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Book SynopsisTable of ContentsSection 1: Introduction Section 2: Individual jaguars 1. Identifying individual jaguars - Paul Brooke and Paul Donahue Section 3: Setting the scene 2. Habitat for Jaguars - Paul Donahue Section 4: Jaguar biology 3. Characteristics and physiology - Paul Brooke 4. Once they were even larger - Paul Brooke 5. Prey items of jaguars - Paul Brooke 6. Bite force and consumption of prey - Paul Brooke 7. Tree-climbing ability of jaguars 8. Territories, population density, and the jaguar corridor - Paul Brooke 9. Flehmen response and scent lures - Paul Brooke 10. The not so solitary - Paul Donahue 11. Mating, cub rearing, and natal disperal - Paul Brooke 12. Suffering and grooming - Paul Brooke 13. Aging and geriatric jaguars - Paul Brooke Section 5: Jaguar tourism and conservation 14. Jaguar tourism - Paul Donahue 15. The scourge of humans - Paul Brooke 16. Jaguars have a cow problem - Paul Donahue 17. Safeguarding cattle with cattle and water buffaloes - Paul Brooke 18. Endocrine-disrupting chemicals - Paul Donahue 19. Hydrophilia and mercury poisoning - Paul Brooke Section 6: Miscellaneous 20. Isca da Onça - Paul Donahue 21. Miscellaneous observations and information - Paul Donahue 22. Field notes - Paul Donahue 23. Pantanal way points for 2017 and 2019 - Paul Donahue 24. Jaguar identification guide examples and names - Abbie Martin, Paul Brooke Section 7: Final thoughts 25. Laying aside fear, embracing beauty - Paul Brooke Authors' biographies Index

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Book SynopsisFrom nose to tail and everything in between - this is your visual guide to understanding your four-legged friend!When your dog looks at you with those big, expressive puppy-dog eyes, do you ever wonder what''s going on in their fur-covered heads? This dog book will help you gain invaluable canine insight through quirky illustrations and infographics. The unique dog encyclopedia explores and explains the world of dogs! It includes:- The dog in pictures - with more than 500 original illustrations- Encyclopedic in scope - covers dog behaviour, psychology, communication, history and dog breeds, as well as celebrity pups and record-breaking hounds- Dog infographics that communicate facts and ideas in a fun way- Witty language that will both inform and entertain readersDo you walk your dog or does your dog walk you? Can you teach an old dog new tricks? What is your dog saying with its wagging tail? This fun visual boo

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Book SynopsisAre you a feline fanatic? Could you tell the difference between a Housecat and an Ojos Azules? Do you want to know how to keep your kitty happy and healthy?The Cat Encyclopedia is a cat compendium with all the facts about cats and kittens. It''s packed with beautifully photographed profiles of different breeds, from the Maine Coon to the Khao Manee, and includes information on caring for your own cat. This book explores the cat''s place in cultures and includes famous cats in art and literature.In this encyclopedia, you will find: -A breed catalogue outlining all the cat breeds such as Shorthairs, Exotic Shorthair, Khao Manee, Korat, Chinese Li Hua, Asian (Burmilla, Smoke, Self, Tortie, Tabby) and more. -How to care for your cat, including how to Prepare for arrival, essential equipment, vet check-ups, food and feeding, Grooming and hygiene and training your cat. -Facts, images, labelled diagrams and more about cats! <

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Book SynopsisTable of Contents1. Kidney 2. Lung 3. Heart 4. Jejunum 5. Colon 6. Mesenteric lymph node

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Book SynopsisThis text explains in simple language the biological functions upon which horse reproduction is based, giving enough background to enable those working in stables and stud farms to cope with any problems that may arise.Table of ContentsAcknowledgments Preface Part 1 - The Horse and Man Nature's horse Veterinary science and management Part 2 - Natural Functions of the Horse The sexual functions of the mare The sexual functions of the stallion Pregnancy Foaling The newborn and older foal Part 3 - Abnormalities and Disease The veterinarian's role on the studfarm Infertility Foetal stress, death and abortion Difficult foaling Diseases of the newborn foal Part 4 - Recent Developments Feeding and breeding Ultrasound scanning: seeing is believing Artificial insemination and embryo transfer Index

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Book SynopsisThe fabled King Ranch of South Texas was renowned for its breed of horses. Here is the story of the ranch and its horses, how they were bred, and what they have achieved.

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Book SynopsisThis book is the final one in a set of four providing a series on controlled reproduction in farm animals. The aim of the series is to provide a general review of the literature dealing with the different ways in which reproduction in the major farm mammals can be controlled and manipulated. The four volumes are effectively an expanded and new edition of a previous work, Controlled Breeding in Farm Animals (Pergamon Press, 1983). However, the literature on this subject has expanded so rapidly since the time of the earlier volume, that it is now thought appropriate to publish it in four separate volumes. Buffaloes, goats, deer and camelids have been added to the species covered by the series compared to the previous book. All volumes provide comprehensive reference lists and are fully up-to-date. This final volume focuses on horses, deer and camelids (camels, llamas and alpacas). All of these animals are attracting increasing attention for either leisure pursuits, meat or fibre productiTable of Contents1: Introduction to controlled reproduction in horses 2: The mare's oestrous cycle and seasonal breeding activity 3: Artificial control of oestrus and ovulation in the mare 4: Pregnancy testing in mares 5: Control of foaling 6: Embryo transfer and in vitro fertilization in horses 7: Controlled reproduction in deer 8: Controlled reproduction in camelids

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Book SynopsisPoultry are farmed and are important sources of protein throughout the world. All students of agriculture are likely to be required to study poultry science to at least an introductory level. However, hitherto there has been no suitable textbook serving the needs of students taking a general introductory course in poultry science. This book aims to fill this gap. It explains the science underlying the productive processes of growth, reproduction and incubation. The applications of nutrition and breeding techniques are described. The book covers all the commercially important poultry species, including turkeys, quail, guinea fowls, ducks and geese, but the main emphasis is on the domestic fowl. The overall purpose is to provide the student with an understanding of the characteristics and physiological responses of domesticated poultry, with particular reference to production. The emphasis is on modelling responses rather than on biochemical and hormonal processes. The author stresses baTable of Contents1: Domesticated Poultry: A Description 2: Taxonomy 3: Domestication and Improvement of Poultry 4: The Poultry Population and Its Distribution 5: Further reading 6: The Products 7: Poultry Carcasses 8: Eggs 9: Further Reading 10: Growth 11: The Physiology of Growth 12: Models of Growth 13: Further Reading 14: Female Reproduction 15: The Reproductive Tract 16: Egg Laying Patterns 17: Egg Production Characteristics 18: Prediction of Egg Production Characteristics 19: Factors That Stop Egg Laying 20: Lighting Programmes 21: Further Reading 22: Male Reproduction 23: The Male Reproductive Tract 24: Semen 25: Artificial Insemination 26: Further Reading 27: Incubation 28: Development of the Embryo 29: Handling and Storage of Hatching Eggs 30: Physical Conditions Necessary for Incubation 31: Commercial Incubation Methods 32: Further Reading 33: Poultry Breeding and Genetic Improvement 34: Commercial Methods of Poultry Breeding 35: Monogenic Traits 36: Use of Molecular Techniques 37: Further reading 38: Nutrition and Feeding 39: The Digestive Tract 40: Nutrient Allowances 41: Practical Feed Formulation 42: Further Reading 43: Housing and Welfare 44: Housing and Environmental Control 45: Welfare 46: Further Reading

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Book SynopsisThis book describes the methodology for predicting the genetic merit of animals in the context of genetic improvement in an animal breeding programme. Information on an animal and its relatives, on either the characteristic to be improved or from other traits, can be used to predict the animal's genetic merit, taking account of the relationships between measurements and the economic values of traits. The methodology is developed from first principles, without unnecessary detail or complexity, and all the required statistical and mathematical concepts are fully described in the book. The text discusses the methods for combining different sources of information and illustrates their use with examples of breeding programmes in cattle, sheep, pigs and poultry. A series of questions with detailed answers is included in the book, to help reinforce the ideas and provide some practical experience in the prediction of genetic merit. The text is aimed at final year undergraduate and first year pTable of Contents1: Introduction to variance 2: ANOVA in a quantitative genetics framework 3: Regression and correlation 4: Identification of animals of high genetic merit 5: Information from relatives 6: Selection index methodology 7: Examples of selection objectives and criteria 8: Factors affecting the rate of genetic improvement 9: Performance testing, progeny testing and MOET 10: Simultaneous prediction of breeding values for several animals 11: Prediction of breeding values and environmental effects 12: Multivariate breeding value prediction 13: Breeding values with a gene of large effect 14: Breeding values for binary traits I: :Appendix: Matrix algebra II: Questions III: Answers IV: References V: Index

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Book SynopsisIn many tropical areas the main constraint to increased output of livestock products is the inability of producers to feed animals adequately throughout the year. Yet opportunities exist to enhance ruminant livestock feed supplies by using crop residues, such as cereal straw and legume haulms. Greater emphasis is therefore now being placed on vegetative production in plant breeding research. Crop residues also play an important role in conserving soil moisture, preventing erosion and providing products such as fuel or thatch for smallholders. This book provides a multi-disciplinary perspective on crop residues, bringing together crop, animal and social scientists from six continents. It has been developed from papers presented at a workshop held in April 1996 at ICRISAT Asia Center, as part of the Systemwide Livestock Program of the Consultative Group on International Agricultural Research (CGIAR) convened by the International Livestock Research Institute (ILRI), based in Africa. It wiTable of Contents1: Technological Constraints and Opportunities in Relation to Class of Livestock and Production Objectives, 2: The Influence of Socioeconomic Factors on the Availability and Utilization of Crop Residues as Animal Feeds, 3: Crop Residues in Tropical Africa: Trends in Supply, Demand and Use, 4: Cowpea and Its Improvement: Key to Sustainable Mixed Crop/Livestock Farming Systems in West Africa, 5: Dynamics of Feed Resources in Mixed Farming Systems in Southeast Asia, 6: Dynamics of Feed Resources in Mixed Farming Systems of South Asia, 7: Dynamics of Feed Resources in Mixed Farming Systems of West/Central Asia-North Africa, 8: Dynamics of Feed Resources in Mixed Farming Systems of Latin America, 9: Crop Residues as a Strategic Resource in Mixed Farming Systems, 10: Alternatives to Crop Residues as Feed Resources in Mixed Farming Systems, 11: Alternatives to Crop Residues for Soil Amendment, 12: Crop Residues for Feeding Animals in Asia: Technology Development and Adoption in Crop/Livestock Systems, 13: The National Perspective: A Synthesis of Country Reports Presented at the Workshop,

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Book SynopsisDuring the last two decades major advances have been made in mammalian genetics. New methods in molecular and cytogenetics, and in biotechnology have been developed. Many of these have been applied to investigating the genetics of sheep and to improving the production of wool, meat and milk. This book is a comprehensive reference work on sheep genetics. All relevant topics have been included, from fundamental genetic structure to the genetics of various production and other traits, to transgenic sheep and genetic conservation. Chapters have been specially commissioned for the volume and written by internationally recognized experts from Europe, USA, Australia and New Zealand. The book will be invaluable to advanced students and research workers in animal genetics, breeding and biotechnology.Table of Contents1: Systematics and Phylogeny of the Sheep I R Franklin, CSIRO, Blacktown, Australia 2: Genetic Aspects of Domestication, Common Breeds and their Origin K Maijala, Helsinki, Finland 3: Genetics of Colour and Hair Texture D P Sponenberg, Virginia-Maryland Regional College of Veterinary Medicine, Blacksburg, USA 4: Genetics of Morphological Traits and Inherited Disorders F W Nicholas, University of Sydney, Australia 5: Biochemical Genetics L Di Stasio, Department of Animal Science, Torino, Italy 6: Molecular Genetics of Sheep B C Powell, University of Adelaide, Glen Osmond, South Australia 7: Molecular Genetics of Immune Molecules W R Hein, Basle Institute for Immunology, Basle, Switzerland 8: Genetics of Disease Resistance and Vaccine Response H W Raadsma, University of Sydney, Australia, G D Gray, University of New England, Armidale, Australia and R R Woolaston, CSIRO Division of Animal Production, Armidale, Australia 9: Molecular Biology and Genetics of Scrapie in Sheep N Hunter, Institute for Animal Health, Edinburgh, UK 10: Cytogenetics: Physical Chromosome Maps T E Broad, AgResearch Invermay Agricultural Centre, New Zealand, H Hayes, Laboratoire de Genetique Biochimique et de Cytogenetique, France and S E Long, University of Bristol, Langford, Bristol, UK 11: The Sheep Linkage Map G W Montgomery and A M Crawford, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand 12: Genetics of Behaviour G N Hinch, University of New England, Armidale, Australia 13: Biology and Genetics of Reproduction I W Purvis and M Hillard, CSIRO Division of Animal Production, Armidale, Australia 14: Modern Reproduction Technologies and Transgenics I Wilmut, K H S Campbell and L Young, Roslin Institute (Edinburgh), Midlothian, UK 15: Development Genetics N E Cockett, Utah State University, Logan, USA 16: Genetic Resources and Conservation R W Ponzoni, South Australian Research and Development Institute, Adelaide, Australia 17: Genetic Improvement of Wool Production K D Atkins, Agricultural Research and Research Centre, Orange, Australia 18: Genetics of Lamb and Meat Production R G Banks, University of New England, Armidale, Australia 19: Genetics of Meat Quality J M Thompson and A J Ball, University of New England, Armidale, Australia 20: Genetics of Milk Production F Barillet, INRA, Castanet-Tolosan Cedex, France 21: Genetic Improvement of Sheep B P Kinghorn, University of New England, Armidale, Australia 22: Standardized Genetic Nomenclature for Sheep C H S Dolling, President of COGNOSAG, South Australia

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Book SynopsisIn the past decade, a number of advances have been made in genetic engineering as applied to farmed animals. This book has been developed from invited presentations at a conference held in California in August 1997 to address this issue. It is written by representatives from the leading laboratories involved in attempts to improve agriculturally important mammals, poultry and fish. Current knowledge, methodology, technical improvements and successes in the applications of transgenic technology to a range of animals which are important in agriculture are brought together for the first time under one cover. This book is essential reading for research workers in animal genetics, breeding and biotechnology.Table of Contents1: Transgenic Farm Animals, C A Pinkert, University of Alabama at Birmingham, USA and J D Murray, University of California, USA 2: Development of Genetic Tools for Transgenic Animals, P B Hackett, University of Minnesota, USA 3: One Gene is Not Enough: Transgene Detection, Expression and Control, K D Wells and R J Wall, Agricultural Research Service, US Department of Agriculture, Beltsville, USA 4: Embryonic Stem Cells in Agricultural Species, G B Anderson, University of California, USA 5: Nuclear Transfer in the Production of Transgenic Farm Animals,I Wilmut, Roslin Institute, Roslin, UK et al. 6: Embryonic Stem Cell Chimaeras and Somatic Cell Nuclear Transplantation for Production of Transgenic Cattle, J M Robl, University of Massachusetts, USA et al. 7: Status of Sperm-mediated Delivery Methods for Gene Transfer, E J Squires, University of Guelph, Ontario, Canada 8: Understanding the Origin of Avian Primordial Germ Cells: Implications for Germ Cell Culture and Transgenesis in Poultry, J N Petitte, North Carolina State University, Davis, USA et al. 9: Generation of Transgenic Poultry by Transfection of Primordial Germ Cells, E A Wong, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Blacksburg, USA 10: Expression of Insulin-like Growth Factor-I in Skeletal Muscle of Transgenic Swine, V G Pursel, US Department of Agriculture, Beltsville, USA et al. 11: Production and Analysis of Transgenic Pigs Containing a Metallothionein Porcine Growth Hormone Gene Construct, M B Nottle, BresaGen Ltd., Adelaide, Australia 12: The Utilization of Bacterial Genes to Modify Domestic Animal Biochemistry, K A Ward CSIRO, NSW, Australia et al. 13: Production of Transgenic Cattle expressing a Recombinant Protein in Milk, W H Eyestone, PPL Therapeutics Inc., Blacksburg, USA 14: Changing the Composition and Properties of Milk, J D Murray et al 15: Comparison of Traditional Breeding and Transgenesis in Farmed Fish with Implications for Growth Enhancement and Fitness, R A Dunham, Auburn University, USA et al. 16: Direct and Correlated Responses to Short-term Selection of 8-week Body Weight in Lines of Transgenic (oMt1a-oGH) Mice, F Siewerdt, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, USA 17: Ethics, Animal Welfare and Transgenic Farm Animals, J A Mench, University of California, Davis, USA 18: The Future of Transgenic Farm Animals, G E Seidel Jr, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, Colorado, USA

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Book SynopsisResearch into equine artificial insemination has recently expanded with increasing horse numbers, the developing leisure interest in horse riding and the realisation of the economic advantages of artificial insemination. This book provides a detailed reference book on the subject and covers its historical development, relevant equine physiology, current practices and future possibilities. It is extensively referenced to allow further reading into specialised areas.Table of ContentsI: Introduction 1: Introduction 2: Advantages of Artificial Insemination 3: Disadvantages of Artificial Insemination 4: Conclusion 5: Historical Development and Present Use of Artificial Insemination 6: Introduction 7: Early History of the Technique 8: Decline in the Horse Population and Equine Research 9: Development of Techniques for Collection of Semen 10: Development of Techniques for Evaluation of Semen 11: Development of Techniques for Handling and Storage of Semen 12: Development of Techniques for Insemination of Semen 13: Present Use of Equine AI 14: Current Reasons for Using Equine AI 15: Conclusion 16: Stallion Reproductive Anatomy and Control 17: Introduction 18: Stallion Anatomy 19: Control of Stallion Reproduction 20: Conclusion 21: Production of Spermatozoa 22: Introduction 23: Seminal Plasma 24: Spermatozoa 25: Conclusion 26: Semen Collection 27: Introduction 28: The Artificial Vagina 29: The Condom 30: Preparation of the Stallion for Semen Collection 31: The Collecting Area 32: Sexual Stimulation of the Stallion and Encouragement to Ejaculate 33: Alternative Methods of Semen Collection 34: Collection Procedure 35: Frequency of Collection 36: Training the Stallion for Collection 37: Conclusion 38: Semen Evaluation 39: Introduction 40: Semen Evaluation as Part of an AI Programme 41: General Semen Handling 42: Gross Evaluation 43: Microscopic Evaluation 44: Functional Tests for Semen Evaluation 45: Sexing Spermatozoa 46: Conclusion 47: Semen Storage and Transportation 48: Introduction 49: Extenders 50: Fresh or Raw Semen 51: Chilled Semen 52: Cryopreservation of Semen 53: Conclusion 54: Mare Insemination 55: Introduction 56: Selection of Suitable Mares for Insemination 57: Preparation of the Mare for Insemination 58: Preparation of Semen for Insemination 59: Methods of Insemination 60: Factors Affecting the Success of AI 61: Conception Rates to AI 62: Conclusion II: Conclusion

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Book SynopsisIntellectual property (IP) and patents involving animals is an ever-changing field. The purpose of this book is to review the role that intellectual property plays in the development of modern animal breeding and genetics. It includes discussion of the history of animal patenting,common forms of intellectual property,economic issues related to patent protection and the funding of research, ethical issues, and the consequences of intellectual property in the modern animal genetics market place.Table of Contents1: Intellectual Property and Food Security – Policy Issues 2: Intellectual Property and Agriculture 3: International Intellectual Property Landscape 4: Plant Variety Protection and Food Security 5: Genetic Resources for Food and Agriculture 6: Traditional Agricultural Knowledge and Farmers Rights 7: Intellectual Property Aspects of GMOs and Food Security 8: Geographical Indications and Food Security 9: Competition Aspects 10: Intellectual Property and Agricultural Research 11: Recommendations

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Book SynopsisThis comprehensive research book represents the first complete integration of current knowledge in this area. It addresses issues associated with poultry breeding particularly by examining quantitative and molecular genetics and the uses of transgenic technology. A special section covers the important area of disease resistance and transmission.Table of Contents1: Part I: Problems and Issues associated with Poultry Breeding 2: Industrial Perspective on Problems & Issues Associated with Poultry Breeding, J Arthur, Hy-Line International, Dallas Center, USA & G Albers, Nutreco Agriculture Research & Development, The Netherlands 3: Growth & Reproduction Problems Associated with Selection for Increased Broiler Meat Production, E Ducuypere, V Bruggeman, Catholic Uni Leuven, G Barbato, Pennsylvania Uni,& J Buyse, Catholic Uni Leuven, 4: Skeletal Problems Associated with Selection for Increased Production, C Whitehead, R Fleming, Bone Biology Group, Roslin Institute, R Julian, Ontario Veterinary College & P Sørensen, DIAS 5: Meat Quality Problems Associated with Selection for Increased Production, H Remignon, ENSAT, France and E Le Bihan-Duval, Station de Recherches Avicoles, INRA Centre de Tours, France 6: Behaviour Problems Associated with Selection for Increased Production, J B Kjaer, Danish Institute of Agricultural Sciences, Tjele, Denmark and J A Mench, University of California, USA 7: Problems with Genotype-Environment Interactions Associated with Selection for Increased Production, P K Mathur, Canadian Center for Swine Improvement Inc, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada 8: Part II: Breeding Strategies and Objectives 9: Breeding Objectives and Selection Strategies for Layer Production, A E Groen, Wageningen University, The Netherlands 10: Breeding Objectives and Selection Strategies for Broiler Production, D Emmerson, Aviagens, AL, USA 11: Use of Mixed Model Methodology in Breeding Strategies for Meat Type Birds, 12: B Besbes, Hubbard-ISA (Layer Division), Chateaubourg, France and V Ducrocq, Station de Genetique Quantitative et Appliquee, INRA, France 13: Application of Mixed Model Methodology in Breeding Strategies for Meat Type Birds, S Wezyk, Krowoderskich Zuchow, Poland and J Jankowski, University of Warmia and Mazury, Poland 14: Use of Mixed Model Methodology in Poultry Breeding: Estimation of Genetic Parameters, T Szwaczkowski, August Cieszkowski Agricultural University of Poznan, Poland 15: Use of Mixed Model Methodology in Poultry Breeding: Assumptions, limitations, and concerns of BLUP based selection programs, M Quinton, University of Guelph, Canada 16: Direct Selection for Improvement of Animal Well-Being, J Faure, Station de Recherches Avicoles, INRA Centre de Tours, France, W Bessei, Universitat Hohenheim, Germany & R Jones, Roslin Institute, Edinburgh 17: Indirect Selection for Improvement of Animal Well-Being, W M Muir 18: Genetic Diversity and Conservation of Poultry, M E Delany, University of California, USA 19: Part III: Disease Resistance and Transmission 20: Progress and Prospects in Resistance to Disease, U Kuhnlein, McGill University, Canada, S E Aggrey and A Zadworny, McGill University, Canada 21: Genetics of the Immune System, J Plachy, Academy of Sciences of the Czech Republic, P Kaiser, Institute of Animal Health, Compton Lab & K Hala, Institute of Pathophysiology, University of Innsbruck Medical School 22: Genetic Resistance and Transmission of Avian Bacteria and Viruses, N Bumstead, Institute of Animal Health, Compton Laboratory, Berkshire, UK 23: Genetic Resistance and Transmission of Avian Parasites, M-H Pinard van der Laan, Laboratoire de Genetique Factorille, INRA, France, H S Lillehoj and James J Zhu, USDA, Agricultural Research Service, USA 24: Selection for Disease Resistance: Conventional Breeding for Resistance to Bacteria and Viruses, C Beaumont, Station de Recherches Avicoles, G Dambrine, A Chausse, INRA & D Flock, Akazienweg, 25: Selection for Disease Resistance: Molecular Genetic Techniques, H H Cheng, USDA-ARS, Avian Diseases and Oncology Lab, MI, USA 26: Selection for Disease Resistance: Direct Selection on the Immune Response, S Lamont, Iowa Uni, M Pinard-van der Laan, A Cahaner, Hebrew Uni Jerusalem, J van der Poel & H Parmentier, Wageningen Uni 27: Part IV: The Use of Genomics and Bioinformatics in Poultry 28: Genetic Markers: Prospects and Applications in Genetic Analysis, S E Aggrey and R Okimoto, University of Arkansas, Fayetteville, USA 29: Designs and Methods to Detect QTL for Production Traits based on Mapped Genetic Markers, J A M Van Arendonk, and H Bovenhuis, Wageningen University, The Netherlands 30: Designs and Methods to Detect QTL for Production Traits based on Random Genetic Models, Yi Nengjun and S Xu, University of California, Riverside, USA 31: Structural Genomics: Integrating Linkage, Physical and Sequence Maps, M A M Groenen and R P M A Crooijmans, Wageningen University, The Netherlands 32: Incorporating Molecular Information in Breeding Programs: Methodology, R Fernando and L R Totir, Iowa State University, Ames, USA 33: Incorporating Molecular Information in Breeding Programs: Applications and Limitations, W M Muir 34: Comparative Genomics, D W Burt, Roslin Institute, Edinburgh, UK 35: Functional Genomics: Development and Gene Regulation, J Killefer, University of Illinois, Urbana, USA and H Kocamis, College of Agriculture, Morgantown, WV, USA 36: Expressed Sequence Tags, DNA Chip Technology and Gene Expression Profiling, L A Cogburn, R Morgan and J Burnside, University of Delaware, Newark, USA 37: DNA Polymorphisms in Functional Genes, U Kuhnlein, McGill University, Quebec, Canada, S E Aggrey, N Kansaku, Azabu University, Sagamihara, Japan and D Zadworny, McGill University, Quebec, Canada 38: Strategies for the Production of Transgenic Chickens, J N Petitte, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, USA 39: The Future of Molecular Genetics in Poultry Breeding, J Dodgson, Michigan State University, East Lansing, USA

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Book SynopsisWith 3000 new references added since the first edition, this book gives the information necessary to produce embryos totally through in vitro techniques. It shows the commercial applications of embryo and oocyte research.Cattle remain at the forefront of many new developments in reproductive technology and what can be done for the cow today will later be applicable to other farm livestock and perhaps humans. This new edition reviews the considerable advances and issues in embryo production technology, based on reports since the first edition in 1994. This is a must have volume for those who own the first edition, and in itself an incredibly informative text.Table of ContentsChapter 1: Developments in Embryo In Vitro Production (IVP) Technology Chapter 2: The Bovine Oestrous Cycle and Associated Events Chapter 3: Recovering the Bovine Oocyte Chapter 4: Maturing the Bovine Oocyte Chapter 5: Capacitating Bovine Sperm Chapter 6: In Vitro Fertilization Chapter 7: Culturing and Evaluating the Early Bovine Embryo Chapter 8: Preservation of Embryos and Oocytes Chapter 9: Establishing Pregnancies with IVP- Embryos Chapter 10: Embryos and Oocytes in Research and Commercial Practice I: Appendices

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Book SynopsisQuaggas were beautiful pony-sized zebras in southern Africa that had fewer stripes on their bodies and legs, and a browner body coloration than other zebras. Indigenous people hunted quaggas, portrayed them in rock art, and told stories about them. Settlers used quaggas to pull wagons and to protect livestock against predators. Taken to Europe, they were admired, exhibited, harnessed to carriages, illustrated by famous artists and written about by scientists. Excessive hunting led to quaggas'' extinction in the 1880s but DNA from museum specimens showed rebreeding was feasible and now zebras resembling quaggas live in their former habitats. This rebreeding is compared with other de-extinction and rewilding ventures and its appropriateness discussed against the backdrop of conservation challengesincluding those facing other zebras. In an Anthropocene of species extinction, climate change and habitat loss which organisms and habitats should be saved, and should attempts be made to restorTable of ContentsAcknowledgements; Introduction; 1. Zebras; 2. Quaggas; 3. Coat coloration; 4. Quaggas, zebras, and humans in Southern Africa; 5. Quaggas abroad; 6. Extinction; 7. Afterlife; 8. Rebreeding; 9. Identity and conservation; Appendix 1. Early illustrations of quaggas; Appendix 2. Records of quaggas kept in Europe; Endnotes; Bibliography; Index.

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Book SynopsisThe Sunday Times bestseller full of inspiring tales of life as a shepherdess, by the star of Channel 5’s Our Yorkshire Farm.From bestselling author Amanda Owen come more stories of life at Ravenseat, the remote Yorkshire hill farm she shares with husband Clive, eight children and 1,000 sheep. In A Year in the Life of the Yorkshire Shepherdess she describes the age-old cycles of a farming year and the constant challenges the family faces, from being cut off in winter to tending their flock on some of Yorkshire's highest, bleakest moors – land so inaccessible that in places it can only be reached on foot.Writing with her trademark warmth and humour, Amanda takes us into her life as nine-year-old Miles gets his first flock, Reuben takes up the flugelhorn and she gives birth to a new baby girl. She is touched by the epic two-day journey of a mother sheep determined to find her lamb and gives a new home to an ageing and neglecteTrade ReviewAmanda Owen is like a breath of fresh air. Amanda's life is one of old-fashioned values, hard graft and plenty of love. She, like her life, is extraordinary. * Ben Fogle *This is the captivating story of life on the highest farm in the north Yorkshire Dales . . . the mum-of-eight told the story of leaving behind an urban life in last year's The Yorkshire Shepherdess. This book is even better. * Sun *A really lovely, lyrical story of the ups and downs of their life. * Daily Mail *

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Book SynopsisThe long tradition of livestock breeding in the Netherlands serves as a valuable example of the delicate balance between art and science, beauty and statistics in the modernizing field of agriculture.Trade Review"This book offers a magnificent panorama on animal husbandry, featuring concrete discussions on dairy cattle, chickens, pigs, sheep, and horses." -- Beat Bächi, University of Zurich * European Journal for the History of Medicine and Health *"A work of excellent scholarship that will be recommended reading for scholars interested in twentieth-century agricultural history and in the history of animal breeding and genetics." -- Tarquin Holmes * History and Philosophy of the Life Sciences *"This book beautifully straddles the line between the two apparently diverse (and often divisive) attitudes to breeding, because of a deep understanding of both genetic and practical breeding methods." -- Margaret E. Derry, University of Guelph * Agricultural History *Table of ContentsAcknowledgments Introduction 1. Breeding for Nobility or for Production? Friesian Dairy Cattle The Breeders Get Organized Type and Tuberculosis The Moral Economy of Breeding Bloodlines and Purity Scientific Breeding Nobility or Production? Entrepreneurship Indexes Holsteinization Market and Moral Economy 2. “The most efficient chickens in the world” From Side Business to Mainstay Hybrid Breeding Hy-Line and Hendrix Genetics From Purebreds to First-Generation Crossbreds Industrialization Developments in Breeding Chickens are Not Peas 3. Breeding a Pig for all Parties Testing for Productive Traits Minkema’s Breeding Plan AI in Pigs Hybrid Pig Breeding The Breeder’s Eye Pigs are Not Chickens 4. Just Not Like any other Sheep Breed: The Texel Creating the Texel The Swifter Breeding by Numbers or By Eye AI in Texel Sheep What’s in a Breed? 5. From Farm Horse to Riding Horse: The Dutch Warmbloods Gelderlanders and Groningers Introducing “Hot Blood” Finding the Right Mix The Government Intervenes Scientific Breeding Balancing Practical and Scientific Methods Conclusions List of illustrations Sources Index

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Book SynopsisFunny, gutsy and heartfelt.' Daily MailZoë Colville spent years in a fancy hair salon with a long list of clients, living on cigarettes, croissants, and a shoestring. It was everything she''d ever wanted. But when an unexpected and overwhelming loss caused her life to shift unexpectedly, she found herself on a different path. One where the only use for a hairdryer is warming new-born lambs; where the cycle of life on a farm gives new meaning on purpose, and where nature is both a strict teacher and a balm to soothe the pressures of everyday life.Zoë is now a full-time farmer, business owner and activist. In this memoir, she speaks vivaciously, humorously, and candidly about the lessons learned along the way, from mental health, social media and identity to surviving as an entrepreneur in a shifting economy. And through those lessons - in love, loss, and lambing - discovering something even more important: that it''s always the right time to take a bold

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Book SynopsisBuilding on the successful structure of the first edition, the second edition of Reproductive Technologies in Farm Animals has been totally updated and revised to provide an up to date account of the key techniques employed in manipulating reproduction in farm animals, including beef and dairy cattle, pigs, sheep, goats, buffaloes, camelids, horses and poultry. A classic introductory text to the subject, the book is based on a comprehensive review of the current literature. It: - outlines different agricultural systems and explores the ethical implications of modern farming methods; - details the many new developments, including the commercial application of sexed semen and large-scale application of in vitro produced cattle embryos; - provides a valuable synopsis of current and future reproductive technologies, such as cloning and the production of transgenic animals. This text remains key reading for students in animal science, agriculture, veterinary medicine and biology, and veterinary practitioners and farmers who wish to keep updated on developments in techniques that may be useful in their daily practice.Table of Contents1: Introduction 2: Artificial Insemination 3: Embryo Transfer 4: In Vitro Embryo Production 5: Controlling Oestrus and Ovulation 6: Controlling Post-partum Ovarian Activity 7: Control of Seasonal Breeding 8: Controlling Multiple Births and Litter Size 9: Pregnancy Testing Technology 10: Controlling Parturition 11: Controlling the Onset of Puberty 12: Production of Clones and Transgenics 13: Suppressing Reproductive Activity

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Book SynopsisThis practical research text provides an invaluable resource for all animal and veterinary scientists designing, analysing and interpreting results from nutrition and feed experiments in pigs and poultry. The emphasis throughout is on practical aspects of designing nutrition experiments. The book builds on the basics and proceeds to describe the limitations of experiment design involving different ingredients. It goes on to describe the characterization of experimental diets including ingredient selection, composition and the minimum proximate analysis required. The text details measurements and the tools available for understanding diverse data sets, data analysis and eventual publication of the research. This fully balanced and extensively referenced, yet practical, text is an invaluable resource to all animal, veterinary and biomedical scientists involved in the designing of nutrition experiments in pigs and poultry, and the publication of their research.Table of Contents-: Foreword 1: General Principles of Designing a Nutrition Experiment 1.1: Introduction 1.2: Nutrient Requirements Research 1.2.1: Environment 1.2.2: Cage versus pen and stocking density 1.2.3: Feed and water form and quality 1.2.4: Energy – amino acids, carbohydrates and fat 1.2.5: Fibre 1.2.6: Other nutrients 1.2.7: Age 1.2.8: Breed and sex 1.2.9: Disease status 1.3: Ingredient Nutrient Contents Research 1.3.1: Cereals 1.3.2: Oilseed meals 1.3.3: Fats 1.3.4: Vitamins and minerals 1.3.5: Additives 1.3.6: Digestibility studies 1.4: Summary 2: Most Common Designs and Understanding Their Limits 2.1: Introduction 2.2: What is the Goal of Simple Research Trials? 2.3: Typical Interpretations of Response Data 2.4: Choosing an Adequate (or the Best) Model to Use 2.5: How Much of a Good Thing is Too Much? 2.6: Variation in Bird Growth and Morphology 2.7: The Choice of an Experimental Unit 2.8: Experimental Power 2.9: More Complex Designs for More Complex Questions 2.10: Summary 3: Practical Relevance of Test Diets 3.1: Introduction 3.2: Commercially Relevant Animal Performance 3.2.1: Indices for measuring animal performance 3.2.2: Presentation of animal performance results 3.3: Feed Formulation 3.3.1: Nutritional considerations for feed formulation 3.3.2: Health considerations for feed formulation 3.3.3: Processing considerations for feed formulation 3.4: Summary 4: Characterization of the Experimental Diets 4.1: Introduction 4.2: Designing Diets: the Semi-synthetic Conundrum? 4.2.1: Sugars and starch 4.2.2: Fibres 4.2.3: Non-feed ingredients and phytate 4.3: Designing Diets: Describing Test Ingredients and an Appropriate Basal Diet 4.3.1: Trial design to compare one additive with a control 4.3.2: Trial design to compare two different additive products 4.4: Summary 5: Measurements of Nutrients and Nutritive Value 5.1: Introduction 5.2: In Vitro Measurements 5.2.1: Proximate analyses 5.2.2: Fibre and carbohydrates in feed 5.2.3: Summary 5.3: Determining Nutritive Value of Ingredients 5.3.1: In vivo experiments 5.3.2: Determining the digestibility of specific nutrients 5.3.3: Indirect measurements of digestibility 5.3.4: Summary 6: Designing, Conducting and Reporting Swine and Poultry Nutrition Research 6.1: Introduction 6.2: Planning the Experiment 6.2.1: Defining objectives 6.2.2: Written protocol 6.2.3: Review of facility capabilities 6.2.4: Statistical plan 6.2.5: Animal care standards and pig management 6.2.6: Data integrity 6.3: Interpreting Experimental Outcomes 6.4: The Experiment Report 6.4.1: Introduction 6.4.2: Materials and methods 6.4.3: Results 6.4.4: Discussion 6.4.5: Conclusions 6.4.6: Literature cited 6.5: Summary 7: Extending the Value of the Literature: Data Requirements for Holo-analysis and Interpretation of the Outputs 7.1: Introduction 7.2: Holo-analysis – Minimum Requirements 7.2.1: Considerations in use of data for holo-analysis 7.2.2: What makes a good model? 7.2.3: Model types 7.2.4: Modelling considerations 7.2.5: Outputs and interpretation 8: Presentation and Publication of Your Data 8.1: Publication Is Not the End of Your Research 8.2: Scientific Style – a Myth Laid Bare 8.3: Telling a Scientific Story 8.4: Structuring the Scientific Story 8.4.1: The Title 8.4.2: The Introduction 8.4.3: The Materials and Methods 8.4.4: The Results 8.4.5: The Discussion 8.4.6: The Summary 8.5: Scientific and Political Correctness 8.6: Which Journal Is Best for My Article? 8.7: Scientific Publication in the Future 8.8: Will New Forms of Publication Change the Way We Write?

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Book SynopsisA lively, engaging introduction to the history of goats in Britain, and the recent renaissance of goat-related products. Ever wondered why a goat’s eyes have rectangular pupils? Or what happened to Thor’s goats each day after they finished pulling his thunderous chariot? Do goat’s milk, cheese and meat represent more ethical food choices than cow and sheep products, and if so, can goat farming play an important role in humankind’s future? Whether you’re an aspiring smallholder, cheese fanatic or simply want to know more about our caprine companions, this guide introduces the fascinating history and folklore of goats and examines the development of goatkeeping in Britain, shedding light on one of our most intelligent, curious and mischievous domestic animals. It also explains the origins and features of the sixteen British goat breeds and the qualities of their products, and even has a few craft and recipe ideas for you to try.Table of ContentsIntroduction A Survival Story Culture, Myth and Folklore Anatomy and Behaviour British Goat Breeds Goat Produce The Future of Goatkeeping Craft and Recipe Ideas Further Reading Places to Visit Index

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Book SynopsisDiscover a forgotten British heritage.The protection and promotion of the UK’s native rare breeds is something that’s in Adam Henson’s blood. His father, Joe, established the Rare Breeds Trust in 1973, and they have been a core attraction at their Cotswold Farm Park, and a part of the Henson family story ever since. In A Breed Apart, Adam Henson takes readers on a very personal journey around the nation, discovering the animals that have shaped our lives and our land throughout the centuries. From postcard perfect Highland Cows to the Cotswold sheep (for whom the Cotswolds are named), to the fearsome, four-horned Manx Loagthan ram and the Ulster White Pig, Adam travels the length and breadth of the British Isles, uncovering the history of these ancient animals, meeting the specialists and farmers who are passionate about their preservation, and shares his hopes for the future of these magnificent and unique breeds and his fight for their survival.This is the story of Britain, told through the native breeds that have nourished and nurtured the nation.

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