The use of GNSS technology to identify lambing behaviour in pregnant grazing Merino ewes

摘要: This current study investigated whether pre-lambing behavioural changes could be identified with the use of global navigation satellite system (GNSS) technology. GNSS devices were deployed on 20 pregnant Merino ewes grazing a 1.6 ha paddock and their lambing activity was compared metrics derived from spatial data. The aims to evaluate event using following three separate metrics: (1) mean daily speed (MDS) 7 days before after lambing, inclusive (n = 12); (2) hourly (MHS) 12 h 9); (3) distance ewe her peers in (mean (MDP); n 9), inclusive. There significant (P < 0.01) difference between pre- post-lambing MDS average ± se being faster than (0.051 0.0004 vs 0.047 0.0005 m/s). Pre- MHS differed significantly 0.05), s.e. (0.049 0.002 0.038 Mean indicated that at time further either or (83.6 14.59 35.2 2.82 35.6 1.68 m). Despite indicating post-lambing, neither metric able identify lambing. MDP not differences but useful predicting found have potential determine ‘trigger’ point parturition therefore used day Therefore, research is required if combination these would enable informed management decisions made.