Estimation of concentrate intake behavior in a lamb feeder using proximity sensors

Abstract

Proximity sensors detect an encounter when another similar device is within a certain distance, and they can be attached to an animal, providing new insights into individual behavior and interactions with other animals or their environment. The aim of this study was to test the ability of these sensors to quantify the concentrate feeding behavior in a lamb feedlot. The monitoring system and the animals used in this study included: "mobile proximity sensors" attached to a collar on eight lambs; "stationary sensors", placed inside two feeders, which scan the proximity of the mobile sensors and the received signal strength indicator; a "gateway" placed near the feeders, which stores the records sent by the stationary sensors; and a mobile phone application. The lambs visited the feeders 20.43 +/- 10.53 times per day (range 8-35), with an hourly average of 0.82 +/- 0.30 visits and an average duration of 7.88 +/- 0.80 min. Three peaks were observed: between early morning and dawn, from 6 am to 9 am, and another at dusk, at 6 pm, coinciding with sunset. The number of feedings per hour followed a 24-hour rhythm. In conclusion, the proximity sensors used appear suitable for documenting the concentrate feeding habits of lambs in a feedlot and would be appropriate for other behaviors involving proximity to other animals or objects.