BRIEF COMMUNICATION: Verification of an automated camera-based system for oestrus detection in dairy cows

摘要

Accurate oestrus detection is critical in New Zealand dairy farming, where many farms operate a seasonal farming model and, therefore, rely on a compact calving spread and a short mating period to farm efficiently. Automated oestrus detection systemsare available that automatically identify and draft cows in oestrus. There are two types of automatic systems available commercially in New Zealand; activity-based systems that involve pedometers/accelerometers and systems that detect mounting behaviourusing a sensor attached to the animal's back.