Using animal behavior and electronics to controll free-ranging animal groups directional virtual fencing (DVM) - Proof-of-concept

TitleUsing animal behavior and electronics to controll free-ranging animal groups directional virtual fencing (DVM) - Proof-of-concept
Publication TypeConference Paper
Year of Publication2005
AuthorsAnderson D.M., Hale C.S., Nolen B., Havstad K
Conference Name2005 Horizons in Livestock Sciences Conference
Date Published2005
ARIS Log Number182237
Keywordsbehavior, Directional, electronics, fencing, free-ranging, virtual
AbstractImproved animal distribution promotes ecologically sound landscape utilization. Diverse utilization patterns require active management of timing and duration of foraging. After 30 years of research, a patented methodology to reintroduce the art of low-stress herding husbandry using 21st century science awaits commercialization. Directional Virtual Fencing (DVF™) melds cutting edge electronics with innate animal behaviors to control free-ranging animals without visible fences. The system compares an animal’s location using Global Positioning System (GPS) technology to a Virtual Center Line (VCL™) after the VCL™ location has been programmed into the device’s Geographic Information System (GIS). A magnetometer in the DVF™ device determines the animal’s angle of approach to the nearest VCL™. Bilateral ramped audio and electric stimulation cues increase in irritation intensity as an animal approaches the VCL™ within a Virtual Boundary (VB™). Cuing stops immediately once the animal turns away from the VCL™. The type of cue, length of cuing and the side of the animal to which the cue is applied are all programmable. This flexibility offers the DVF™ user many options to implement Prescription Stocking (RxS™). The first autonomous field test of DVF™ occurred on April 2, 2001. Since then, our team has determined that DVF™ can control animal groups behind static as well as moving VBs™. Current research is focused on developing power efficient hardware with a small footprint coupled to wireless data transmission capabilities in a potentially patentable solar powered head mounted device. With DVF™ the art of animal husbandry is integrated with cutting edge technology.