Wearables and repro – what the data tells us | Ep. 103

Talking Dairy

More farmers are investing in wearable technology to help manage heat detection and ease pressure on skilled people during a busy time on-farm. But do these devices improve reproductive performance – an important factor regularly considered in return on investment calculations?

In this episode, Jac McGowan speaks with DairyNZ senior scientist Dr Paul Edwards and CowSmart vet and co-founder Line Ferriman. Together, they break down new independent research that compares reproduction results from herds using wearables and those that don’t.

The study shows farmers using wearable tech are adopting new mating approaches like extended or all-AB periods. But does the data show performance gains as well? Listen in to hear about the findings and interesting insights from this research.

For more information:

• Inside Dairy story: A closer look at wearable technology | DairyNZ
• DairyNZ information: Automated heat detection | DairyNZ
• DairyNZ Technology and Workplace Practices Survey: Milking Practices and Technology Use | DairyNZ
• CowSmart: CowSmart - Animal Monitoring Data Consultancy

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Stay up to date with advice, latest research, tools and resources. Read, browse, scroll, listen, or be there in person. Visit dairynz.co.nz/get-connected

Kapitel

1. Introduction: The rise of wearable technology in dairy farming (00:00:00)

2. Research insights on reproductive performance (00:03:17)

3. Understanding the impact of wearables (00:06:03)

4. Adoption and performance comparisons (00:08:57)

5. The role of wearables in heat detection (00:11:14)

6. Longer AB periods and their benefits (00:15:15)

7. The investment considerations (00:17:57)

8. Episode summary (00:23:31)