novel approaches to expression and detection of oestrus in dairy cows

equipped with backpacks. They were then returned to their location with
their position being recorded by UWB and signals relayed to a computer
where information about the cows’ movements was stored for post-trial
analysis. Cow behaviour was also monitored by CCTV (PTZ Dome Camera,
Pelco-D 2400) and by visual observation, where records were made of cow
number, time and position in a location and general behaviour/ activity of
each cow.
Results of these short trials allowed for problems with the equipment and
set up to be identified and these are outlined and discussed in Table 4.1.
Problems encountered due to equipment setup, occurring mainly because
UWB is not designed for the purpose of cattle monitoring, were; wire
connections, MU antenna breakages, battery power and units ‘dropping
out’ of signal range. Once these issues were resolved cows could be
monitored with continuity of data collection and positioning could be
accurately identified, see Figure 4.14. Cow behaviour and position were
recorded continuously for a period of approximately 2 hours (9.45am to
11.45am) using UWB, CCTV and visual observation. Initially there is some
spiking at the beginning of recording which could be due to the cow
returning from the management/AI stalls into the location, which is inside
the BU network. The graph of absolute height then gives a clear indication
of the cows movements; standing at the feed passage, entering the
cubicles which is shown by an increase in height, then lying down in the
cubicles shown by a marked decrease in height, finally ending with minimal
spiking as the cow entered the robot to be milked.
The most important conclusion from this set of experiments was that all
cows displayed natural behaviour whilst wearing backpacks (Figure 4.14).
In conclusion, the three small trials allowed identification of problems that
occurred due to UWB set up and for these problems to be resolved (Table
4.1) which allowed progression to monitoring cows’ position and thus their
behaviour.
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