Understanding Interactions Between Autonomous Animal Control and Temperament When Cattle are Subejcted to Virtual Fencing Applications

TitleUnderstanding Interactions Between Autonomous Animal Control and Temperament When Cattle are Subejcted to Virtual Fencing Applications
Publication TypeConference Paper
Year of Publication2005
AuthorsAnderson D.M.
Conference NameHorizons in Livestock Sciences Conference
Date PublishedOctober 2-5, 200
Conference LocationQueensland, Australia
ARIS Log Number188869
Keywordsanimal control, controls, temperament, virtual fencing
AbstractVirtual fencing has the potential to control grazing livestock. Understanding and refining the cues that can alter behavior is an integral part of autonomous animal control. A series of tests have been completed to explore the relationship between temperament and control. Prior to exposure to virtual fencing control the animals were scored for temperament using flight speed and a sociability index using contact logging devices. The behavioural response of 30, Belmont Red steers were observed for behavioural changes when presented with cues prior to receiving an electrical stimulation. A control and four treatments designed to interrupt the animal's movement down an alley were tested. The treatments consisted of sound plus electrical stimulation, vibration plus electrical stimulation, a visual cue plus electrical stimulation and electrical stimulation by itself. The treatments were randomly applied to each animal over five consecutive trials. A control treatment in which no cues were applied was used to establish a basal behavioural pattern. A trial was considered completed after each animal had been retained behind the cue barrier for at least 60 sec. All cues and electrical stimulation were manually applied from a laptop located on a portable 3.5 m tower located immediately outside the alley. The electrical stimulation consisted of 1.0 Kv of electricity. Electric stimulation, sound, and vibration along with the Global Position System (GPS) hardware to autonomously record the animal's path within the alley were recorded every second.