Changes in Live Weight and the Reproductive Tract of Farmed Red Deer Stags from 6 to 27 Months of Age

Abstract

49 farm-bred red deer males were weighed at slaughter at 6-27 months of age, and their reproductive tracts were dissected and examined. Spermatogenesis began at 9 months of age, elongated spermatids were present at 12 months, and seminiferous tubules were mature and fully active at 15 months, coinciding with the time of seasonal rut in older stags. During the winter (15-21 months of age), the weight of the reproductive tract decreased, and there was a slight decrease in body weight. Body weight increased from 24 months of age, at the time of the resumption of reproductive tract development. The highest weights of the testes and accessory glands were recorded at the time of the 2nd rut in Mar. (at the age of 27 months). Body weight at slaughter increased during spring and summer and fell in autumn.