Estimation of body weight and body condition score in dairy cows by digital image analysis method

In this study the body weight (BW) and condition score (BCS) of lactating cows was estimated by using conventional (CM) digital image analysis methods (DIAM). BCS is an important factor to facilitate different practices management in dairy cattle. A total 204 Holstein live images were taken remote shutter camera. Six measurements such as heart girth (HG), wither height (WH), hip (HH), length (BL), front hip-width (FHW), back (BHW) used for assessment BW CM DIAM. The estimation CBW HG, FHW, BL variables effective (R2 = 0.75). However, all ineffective (MBCS), 0.06, conventional) DBCS 0.05, digital) estimation. WH, BHW, precise DBW 0.77). No significant differences found across (CM, DIAM) measurements. intra-class reliability coefficient (ICC) (MBW, DBW) “good” “excellent” between estimations. This indicates that DIAM a reliable method determining MBW, can be interchanged effectively with CM.