Introduction
The increased demand for goat meat, especially in the United States, could possibly be met in part through improving reproductive efficiency in our herds. Reproduction efficiency is one of the most important economic traits in terms of livestock production. Maintaining good reproductive functions in the herd is pivotal to the success of any livestock production system. Productivity and profitability is measured by ovulation rate, conception rate, the number of kids born, the number of kids weaned and the frequency in which they are produced. Reproduction is the propagation and continuation of a species through a sequence of events. This process involves the production of hormones (i.e., estrogen, testosterone) and the development of the reproductive system to carry out germ cell development, fertilization, pregnancy and eventually parturition which is the act of giving birth(McKenzie-Jakes, 2007). Understanding the estrous (breeding) cycle and how hormones work during the cycle can help us to change those patterns and behavior to improve efficiency of reproduction to eventually benefit the goat industry. The link below will provide readers a basic understanding of reproductive biology/physiology that can be used to better manage animals for high reproductive rates.