This study found that combining an automated activity monitor with tail chalk improves the identification of true estrus in dairy cows, and estrus with higher intensity and longer duration. Tail chalk can serve as a marker of high-intensity estrus and enhance the accuracy of monitor alerts.
Jul 1, 2025
A pedometer for dairy cows accurately tracked steps overall, but it tended to overcount movement — especially walking — by picking up any leg motion, even when the cow wasn’t actually walking.
Jan 1, 2024
Research shows that cows showing stronger and longer signs of heat (estrus) are more likely to get pregnant and keep the pregnancy. Using activity monitors to track these signs can help farmers improve breeding success and even tailor treatments to individual cows. As technology advances, this data could help refine breeding decisions and may even influence future genetic selection for fertility traits.
Jan 1, 2021
Aug 1, 2018
Jan 1, 2018