Visual Stimuli and Reproductive Behavior in Bulls

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Abstract
Although vision was not essential for the development of reproductive functions in bulls, visual stimuli played an important role in the immediate and direct control of certain aspects of sexual behavior. Absence of vision, either permanent or temporary, greatly reduced the probability that a bull would identify the sexual situation and initiate a sexual response. Visual stimuli facilitate initial responses, but after the first ejaculate become dispensable. Ability of a bull to achieve proper orientation is initially impaired by absence of vision. However, blind bulls experienced with the artificial vagina were able to copulate readily with cows. Blind bulls were deficient in only one quantitative parameter—response to new stimulus animals. Responses to the initial teaser and recovery rates were comparable to those for bulls with vision. Bulls blindfolded temporarily gave normal initial responses, but were deficient in rate of recovery as well as in response to novel stimulus animals. In general, lack of vision limits sexual behavior by: (a) delaying initiation of sexual activity, (b) initially impairing orientation, and (c) reducing ability to detect and respond to novel stimulation. The general role of sensory systems, particularly vision and olfaction, in the sexual behavior of males is discussed. It is concluded that elimination of one or more sensory systems reduces the probability that a male will identify the sexual situation, but the same sensory loss has negligible effects upon the quantity of behavior elicited after identification has occurred. A full component of sensory systems may be essential for optimal responses to novel stimulation. Copyright © 1966. American Society of Animal Science. Copyright 1966 by American Society of Animal Science

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