The Swine it Podcast Show - Dr. Robert Knox: Fertility Drivers in the Breeding Herd | Ep. 352

In this episode, Dr. Robert Knox from the University of Illinois breaks down key factors impacting fertility in the breeding herd. He explains how estrus expression in weaned sows drives herd performance, why conception failures occur even in well-managed systems, and what litter size trends mean for pigs born alive. Dr. Knox also discusses fixed time AI, gilt development targets, and practical ways producers can reduce variation and improve reproductive consistency. Listen now on all major platforms.

What you'll learn:  

• Estrus detection insights
• Fertility diagnostics
• Pregnancy failure causes
• Litter size trends
• Reproductive technologies

Meet the guest:

Dr. Robert Knox is a professor and swine extension specialist in the Department of Animal Sciences at the University of Illinois. His work focuses on applied swine reproductive management, fertility diagnostics, estrus behavior, and reproductive efficiency in commercial systems. Dr. Knox supports producers worldwide by translating research into practical solutions for swine production. 

Listen to The Swine it Podcast Show with Dr. Robert Knox on all major platforms.

Connect with our guest on Social Media: LinkedIn

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