A Case Study on the Use of Virtual Fencing to Intensively Graze Angus Heifers Using Moving Front and Back-Fences

Virtual fencing contains and controls grazing cattle using sensory cues rather than physical fences. The technology comprises a neckband-mounted device that delivers an audio cue when the animal nears virtual boundary has been set via global positioning system, followed by electrical stimulus if it walks beyond boundary. successfully used to intensively graze simple front-fence, but more complex intensive system comprising moving front back-fences not assessed. We studied effectiveness of contain groups Angus heifers within cells defined semi-permanent electric side-fences back-fences, compared contained in only fencing. Four 10 were randomly allocated “control” (grazed with conventional back-fence, n = 2 groups) or “virtual fence” treatment groups). grazed four adjacent experimental paddocks established TechnoGrazing™ infrastructure. An estimated 9.5 kg pasture DM/heifer.day was offered each three 3 day allocations (9 study period). Data collected include delivered neckbands, time boundaries, consumption for allocation heifer live weight changes over period. one group their cell, second spent increasing amount exclusion zone during third consequently received number stimuli. There no effects virtual-fence on change utilization. By our design may have produced motivation some cross regain close contact familiar conspecifics. Despite this, valuable learnings gained from this study. Most notably, should be manage visual other mobs. conclude successful application needs accommodate natural behaviors cattle.