Methods for estimating birthing data for an animal

摘要

The present invention provides methods for the estimation of birthing data (such as birthing date and birthing weight) by consideration of a mother animal's weight over an expected birthing period. The method comprises the steps of: measuring or providing the weight of the mother animal at intervals over an expected birthing period to provide a series of dated weight records, estimating the underlying weight of the mother animal over the expected birthing period from the series of dated weight records, and identifying a significant weight drop of the mother animal by reference to the estimated underlying weight, wherein the estimated birthing date is on or before the date of the significant weight drop. The methods are particularly useful in animals associated with production, such as cattle.