Artificial Insemination (AI) with Fresh, Chilled and Frozen Semen

Between 75 and 100 mares are inseminated at Willesley each year. The experienced team is able to guide you through the whole process.

American barn style stabling or secure paddock (individual or small group) turnout is available for mares that are resident at Willesley while they are being inseminated.

Frozen Semen

Frozen semen gives access to most foreign stallions and some UK competition stallions not available through fresh or chilled semen. Mares are best admitted to Willesley for insemination to allow careful management. Our records show average per season pregnancy rates of 78%

Chilled Semen

Chilled semen is usually sent by overnight courier for mare insemination. Some foreign stallions and most UK stallions are available through chilled semen. Mares are admitted to Willesley for breeding management. Our records show average per season pregnancy rates of 82% with chilled semen.

Fresh Semen

Mares can be managed at Willesley and inseminated with fresh semen from stallions collected at Willesley or standing locally. Our records show average per season pregnancy rates of 87% with fresh semen.

Health Tests

All mares inseminated at Willesley will require health tests taken according to the HBLB code of practice for venereal diseases;

• Negative Clitoral swab.
• Negative EVA blood test taken within 1 month of admission.
• A health declaration completed by your current vet.

Depending on your location, a member of our stud team may be able to come and carry out the tests and carry out a preliminary assessment of the mare along with a thorough discussion of the breeding plan.