The application of virtual fencing technology effectively herds cattle and sheep

Context Herding and mustering procedures during livestock management can be time-consuming, labour intensive, costly. The ability to gather animals virtually is an enticing notion but technology do this not widely commercially available. Aims eShepherd® virtual fencing system being developed for cattle may able remotely herd animals. This operates via global positioning system, requires wear a neckband device. Animals are trained associate audio tone with electrical pulse avoid boundary. Methods Experiments were conducted using pre-commercial prototypes of the automated neckbands, sheep manually operated dog training collars implementing same algorithm explore potential herding, optimal fence designs herding success. In first experiment, five groups 12 moved down 344 m paddock three different placement designs. Results most successful design was back that followed behind prevent them from turning in wrong direction. fences activated by personnel based on movement. type applied two six successfully 140 second experiment. Conclusions All highly dependent animal’s own pace movement as no signals ‘push’ animals, systems only prevented prototype device used now obsolete testing updated versions would needed confirm its application animal herding. Implications These preliminary trials indicate livestock, improvements required, yet