FIKKIA NEWS – Monday, (02/06/2026) Veterinary Medicine Study Program FIKKIA held a guest lecture with Dr. Wan Nor Fitri Wan Jaafar from the Department of Farm and Exotic Animal Medicine and Surgery, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM). This event was attended online by 90 veterinary students who enthusiastically followed the material entitled "Reproductive Biology in Deer timorensis: From Animal Handling to Semen Quality Assessment. "
Dr. Wan Nor Fitri opened the lecture with an explanation of animal handling. According to her, handling of Timorensis deer must be carried out using safe, ethical procedures and in accordance with animal welfare standards. Handling is carried out using safe restraint, which involves restraining the animal using physical methods or special cages to prevent excessive stress. Sedation is used if necessary. light to facilitate sampling, accompanied by monitoring of animal vital signs.
Breeding Seasonality as the Key to Reproduction
In his lecture, he emphasized that breeding seasonality is a key factor in understanding Timorensis deer reproduction. This species' reproductive patterns are influenced by environmental conditions, particularly food availability and day length (photoperiod). Timorensis deer typically enter mating season at a specific time of year, coinciding with the rainy season when food sources are abundant. This ensures that fawns are born when environmental conditions are favorable for growth.
"Breeding seasonality is a biological strategy that ensures species survival. By synchronizing the breeding season and food availability, timorensis deer can maximize reproductive opportunities." said Dr. Wan Nor Fitri.
Semen Collection and Analysis Techniques
The core of the lecture covered deer semen sampling techniques. Dr. Wan Nor Fitri explained the collection methods used in the study, including standard procedures for maintaining sample quality. After collection, semen analysis was performed, including:
- Sperm motility: the ability of sperm to move actively.
- Sperm morphology: the normal shape and structure of sperm.
- Sperm viability: the survival rate of sperm.
This analysis, he said, is a crucial indicator for assessing deer reproductive health. The data obtained can be used to support conservation programs and the development of wildlife reproductive technologies.
Beyond the technical aspects, Dr. Wan Nor Fitri emphasized the importance of reproductive research in a conservation context. She stated that the Timorensis deer holds high ecological and cultural value in Southeast Asia, and therefore, its population sustainability must be maintained.
This lecture provided students with new insights into the application of reproductive science to wildlife conservation. The interactive discussion enriched their understanding of reproductive physiotechnology, theriogenology, veterinary biotechnology, and wildlife health. With great enthusiasm, it is hoped that similar activities can continue to be held to strengthen international academic networks and support endemic wildlife conservation efforts.
Author: Amalia Sofi Ramadanti
Editor: Avicenna C. Nisa