GNSS technology and its application for improved reproductive management in extensive sheep systems

Abstract

The behaviour of Merino ewes during non-oestrus and oestrus were quantified using Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) tracking devices and direct visual observation. GNSS devices were attached to neck collars and deployed on mixed-age ewes (38 maiden and 40 experienced ewes) following hormonal oestrus synchronisation. The positional accuracy of the GNSS data was validated through a comparative study of GNSS estimates of each animal’s location compared with direct visual observations. Positional accuracy was estimated at 90–94%, for a 4-m and 6-m-buffer radius, respectively. Ewe speed of movement was calculated from the GNSS data and plotted against hour of the day to determine diurnal activity patterns during non-oestrus and oestrus days. Ewes showed increased speed of movement during the early morning of the anticipated day of oestrus compared with the non-oestrus day (P < 0.001). In addition, ewes that increased their speed of movement by 0.05 m/s received 1.4–28.4 times more mounts depending on the hour of the day (P = 0.02). Ewes also displayed an increased speed of movement in the period leading up to maximum sexual activity, defined as the hour in which ewes received the maximum number of mounts. Thereafter, ewe activity decreased. No difference in sexual activity was detected between maiden and experienced ewes. The present study has demonstrated a change in ewe diurnal activity at oestrus, suggesting the onset of sexual activity can be identified as a period of increased speed of movement followed by a return to ‘normal’ activity. The development of commercial remote autonomous monitoring technologies such as GNSS tracking to detect this change in behaviour could facilitate improved reproductive management of sheep in extensive systems.