What must most animals be in to be bred?

In animal breeding, being in estrus, or heat, is crucial because this is the period when female animals are sexually receptive and capable of conceiving. During estrus, physiological and behavioral changes occur, signaling to potential mates that they are ready for breeding. This period ensures that the timing aligns with ovulation, enhancing the chances of successful fertilization.

While puberty is important as it marks the onset of reproductive capability, not all animals that have reached puberty are ready to breed effectively without the cues provided by the estrus cycle. Gestation, on the other hand, refers to the period of development of the embryo, which occurs after successful breeding. Conception is the moment when fertilization occurs, but it cannot take place if the female is not in estrus first. Thus, being in estrus is the key stage for breeding to occur successfully.