Murdoch University Sensor Trial at Avington

Murdoch university recently undertook a study using sensor technologies on ewes and lambs.

This technology will potentially offer an accurate means for identification of lambs to dams, resulting in the collection of critical DNA data for breeders. 

The sensors monitored lamb and ewe behaviour to match lambs to their dams.

The study will aim to further develop data collection on lamb and ewe behaviour, changes in activity, isolation pattern suckling/licking behaviours, date of conception, date of birth, lameness, Dystocia, cast ewes, early warning of flies/ill-thrift and intake and grazing patterns.

Lambs at Avington were fitted with non-intrusive collars with sensor monitors. When in commercial production, Electronic tag technology similar to the Electronic Identification Device (EID) which is currently in use, will more than likely replace the trial collars.