The effect of season on testicular weight and spermatogenesis in turkeys.

Abstract Semen collection was carried out on Large White and Auburn turkeys over a nine month period beginning in February. Equal numbers of each strain were slaughtered periodically throughout the summer and fall. The testicles were recovered, weights recorded, and histological sections were prepared and examined for signs of active spermatogenesis. Significant differences occurred in the testes weight between the two strains studied in the May and September tested birds. Significant differences also occurred in the testes weight within strains between the males slaughtered in May and October. Microscopic examination of histological sections revealed a progressive reduction in active spermatogenesis between testes recovered in early summer and those recovered in the fall.