The estrus detection problem: new concepts, technologies, and possibilities

The single most important problem limiting high reproductive efficiency in the national dairy herd is poor detection of estrus. Failure to detect estrus or erroneous diagnosis of estrus results in an estimated annual loss of over $300 million to the dairy industry in the US. New technologies for the solution of this problem must be more effective than visual observation and aids currently used to detect estrus. Ideally, technologies that provide the solution for detection problems should provide the following: continuous (24 h/d) surveillance of the cow, accurate and automatic identification of cows in estrus, operation for the productive lifetime of the cow, minimized labor requirements, and high accuracy in identifying the appropriate physiologic or behavioral events that correlate highly with ovulation. New approaches are aimed at providing automation of detection of estrus using electronic technology. Pedometry, implantable impedance sensors, and surface-applied and implantable pressure sensors are in various stages of development and use.