As in this era of advanced technology, animal husbandry is not an exception. Agriculture that is environmentally friendly and animal welfare are two issues that need immediate legislative action, and technology has shown to be a crucial tool in tackling many of these issues. The several ways that technology will impact animal husbandry in the future are examined in this article.
Precision Livestock Farming (PLF)
To monitor and improve the processes of cattle production, PLF uses a combination of software, sensors, and data analysis. By placing sensors in their barns or stables, farmers can track the growth, weight, and overall health of their animals. These sensors alert farmers to potential health hazards by detecting any abnormalities in behavior. As a bonus, this ensures that animals get timely medical treatment, which boosts profitability and production by optimizing feed intake.
Drones
Drones have emerged as a valuable tool for herders and ranchers. They can monitor vast pastures, ensuring that all animals are accounted for. Additionally, drones can be used to check for broken fences or water supply issues. This aerial perspective has drastically reduced the need for manual labor and has significantly improved the efficiency of open range livestock management.
Wearable Devices
Much like the fitness trackers that many humans wear today, livestock too can benefit from wearables. These devices monitor vital stats such as heart rate, temperature, and activity levels. Early detection of diseases, understanding fertility cycles, and monitoring general well-being becomes effortless with these devices.
Automated Milking and Feeding Systems
Robotic milking methods have provided various advantages to dairy producers. By enabling the practice of milking cows whenever it is most convenient for them, these advances enhance the wellbeing of animals. Similarly, automated feeding systems figure out how much feed is best for each animal based on information from several sensors, including wearables.
Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML)
Animal husbandry will undergo a revolution thanks to AI and ML. These technologies are supporting proactive management in a variety of ways, from forecasting disease outbreaks to evaluating the massive volumes of data gathered by sensors. For example, lameness in cows may be identified by image recognition software long before it is apparent to the human eye, allowing for prompt treatment.
Digital Platforms for Data Management
It may be quite difficult to store and analyze the vast volumes of data produced by different digital instruments. With digital systems made especially for animal husbandry, producers may get a comprehensive picture of their activities. These platforms can provide insights on breeding patterns, monitor growth rates, and even predict market demand.
Enhanced Genetics and Biotechnology
Producers may now selectively breed animals in an attempt to improve animal health and agricultural production thanks to advancements in biotechnology. Although opinions on the matter’s ethical implications differ, there is no denying the topic’s potential benefits for advancing sustainability and meeting the world’s food needs.
Virtual Reality (VR) and Augmented Reality (AR)
Even though it seems futuristic, animal husbandry is starting to use AR and VR. VR may replicate different agricultural conditions for training reasons, giving farmers and herders the opportunity to practice without fear of real-world repercussions. AR, on the other hand, may help with activities like animal identification or health evaluations by superimposing digital information on the real world.
Conclusion
Profit maximization is not the only reason why technology and animal husbandry are being combined, but it is a major one. It all comes down to developing a compassionate, effective, and sustainable method of raising animals. The techniques we use to raise and take care of our animals will advance along with technology. Accepting these developments guarantees everyone’s future food security and sustainability in addition to the welfare of the animals.